Blue Cross in Rolleston is urgently calling for volunteer foster carers to help the charity care for more horses, as the number of equines arriving at its rehoming centres has surged by nearly 70% nationally. The charity, which operates a rehoming centre on Dovecliff Road in Burton upon Trent, needs temporary homes for horses and ponies to alleviate pressure on its facilities.
Growing Need for Foster Homes
Last year, the Rolleston centre helped 60 horses through its foster yards, and so far this year, the team has already placed 27 horses in foster homes. The national increase in arrivals reflects a broader trend, with more dogs, cats, and small animals also coming into Blue Cross care. The charity provides full training for all new fosterers and covers all costs, including equipment and food.
Foster Carer's Experience
Susan Stephenson has been fostering horses and ponies for Blue Cross since November 2025 and is currently caring for Natalie, a pony who came into Blue Cross care after her previous owner passed away. Following an initial assessment, the team determined that Natalie would benefit from a quiet home environment, so she was placed in foster with Susan.
Susan said: "I love fostering horses and ponies for the Blue Cross because it is such a worthwhile cause. Horses have been my lifelong passion, and knowing that I can contribute to the welfare of just a few horses in need is a huge reward in itself."
Impact of Foster Carers
Maria Kavanagh, centre manager at Blue Cross Rolleston, said: "Foster homes give horses the time and space they need to settle, build confidence, and prepare for their forever homes. Every foster carer makes a real difference, helping Blue Cross support more horses in need." The charity encourages anyone interested to visit bluecross.org.uk/volunteer for more information.
