Carriage Driving For our Community CIC
Join the Journey

Empowering Through Carriage Driving

At Carriage Driving Community, we believe every smile tells a story — and many of ours are powered by four hooves and a whole lot of courage. We create inclusive, confidence-building opportunities for people with disabilities, non-visible conditions, neurodiversity and health challenges to reconnect with joy, freedom and community through carriage driving.


With qualified tuition and calm, experienced horses, our members can progress from relaxed sessions through to competitive Carriage Driving Trials. Beyond the arena, we offer scenic carriage journeys through the local area, combining fresh air, friendship and a beautifully nostalgic way to travel — often stopping to support local cafés and businesses along the way.


We also proudly provide accessible transport at community events, including the annual Bawtry Festival, helping everyone feel part of the celebration.


Join us to slow down, feel empowered and rediscover what’s possible.


For upcoming events please see our “EVENTS” page. 

coming up next “ Give Carriage Driving A Go - Social Prescribing Day “
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Elvis Approved



At Carriage Driving Community CIC, “Elvis Approved” is more than a badge — it’s our quiet promise.


Elvis, our assistance dog and constant companion, represents the heart of everything we do: safety, kindness, calm environments and genuine partnership.


When something is “Elvis Approved”, it means it meets our standards for welfare, inclusion and wellbeing — for both people and equines.


It means the horses are happy in their work.

It means participants feel safe, supported and respected.

It means the atmosphere is welcoming, not intimidating.


Elvis has an exceptional instinct for people and situations. If he is relaxed, settled and content, we know we’ve created the right environment.


So when you see the badge, know that it reflects care, integrity and community at the centre of everything we do.


Officially Elvis Approved. 🐾💙

Meet Our Team

Dedicated professionals supporting our community through carriage driving and wellness initiatives.

Gemma Owens - Founder, Director & Coach 

Gemma Owens is the Founder and Director of Carriage Driving Community, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to creating inclusive, confidence-building opportunities through carriage driving. A qualified instructor, Gemma is passionate about empowering individuals with invisible disabilities, neurodiversity and health conditions to thrive through accessible equestrian experiences.


Drawing on lived experience, Gemma understands the transformative power of horses in building confidence, independence and wellbeing. Under her leadership, the organisation has grown to deliver community training, competitive pathways, accessible carriage rides and outreach at local events — helping bring people, horses and smiles together.


Gemma is committed to building a welcoming, supportive environment where everyone feels valued, capable and inspired to achieve more than they believed possible.

karen Halbert -Director

An experienced horse handler focused on creating a safe and comforting environment for all participants.

Julie Fox-McGowan  - Director 

.Julie joins Carriage Driving Community as our newest Director, bringing strong people skills, fresh perspective and a genuine passion for inclusive community development. Her commitment to accessibility, wellbeing and positive growth strengthens our leadership team and supports our mission to make carriage driving welcoming for all.