ChildVision is preparing to open the doors of its brand-new Jack de Bromhead Equine Centre on Friday, 26th September at 12pm on the Drumcondra campus.

The state-of-the-art 1,375 sq.m. indoor therapeutic equine facility is named in memory of Jack de Bromhead, the beloved son of Henry and Heather de Bromhead and brother to Mia and Georgia. The centre was made possible through the generosity of family, friends, and supporters, following a campaign led by Chris Jones.

The equine centre will transform opportunities for children with visual impairments and additional disabilities by providing access to world-class equine-assisted activities. The indoor facility will allow ChildVision’s equine team and volunteers to extend their services throughout the year, ensuring more children can benefit regardless of weather conditions.

Speaking ahead of the launch, Henry, Heather, Mia and Georgia de Bromhead described the centre as “a wonderful legacy for our beloved Jack, a hugely missed son and brother… The Jack de Bromhead Equine Centre will be a place of learning and hope, full of laughter and joy, traits that were such a part of Jack.”

Barry Sheridan, CEO of ChildVision, said the opening marks an important milestone: “We are thrilled to be opening the doors of the Jack de Bromhead Equine Centre at ChildVision, a state-of-the-art facility that will enable life-changing opportunities for the children and young people we support. In this Equine Centre we will ensure that Jack’s memory will live on in all those families that come through the doors.”

Designed by Hanley Taite Design Partnership, the new building includes an enclosed sand arena, stables for up to 10 horses, changing facilities, offices, and a viewing and learning space. The contemporary, sustainable design ensures services can be delivered safely and comfortably year-round.

Lucy Dillon, Equine Unit Manager at ChildVision, said: “Having a facility such as this… will enable our team of dedicated staff and volunteers to help those children most in need of equine assisted activities. To see children engage with our horses and ponies in such a positive way is why we do what we do.”

The opening of the Jack de Bromhead Equine Centre is a celebration of community, generosity, and the enduring legacy of a young man whose name will now be forever linked with hope, healing, and horses.