A Charity Leader Taking the Stage for Equine Welfare

Sarah Arthur, Chief Executive Officer of the Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA), is stepping into the spotlight to raise critical funds for the charity’s Horse Abandonment Crisis Fund, using her voice to advocate for horses when they need it most.

On Friday 30th January 2026, Sarah will represent HAPPA at the East Lancs Chamber Great Chamber Sing-Off, held at Burnley Mechanics Theatre. Joining twelve senior business leaders from across Burnley, she will take part in an evening designed to unite the local business community behind vital charitable causes.

For Sarah, this is more than a performance. It is a visible act of leadership during a period of unprecedented pressure on equine welfare services.

A Leader Stepping Forward During a National Welfare Crisis

HAPPA is currently responding to a significant rise in horse, pony and donkey abandonment, with reports of neglect increasing while operational costs continue to escalate. This growing disparity between demand and available resources places charities like HAPPA at a critical tipping point.

Having dedicated over 22 years to equine protection, Sarah’s decision to participate in the Sing-Off reflects a leadership approach grounded in advocacy, accountability and action.

“By signing up to the Sing-Off, I hope to inspire others to support HAPPA in ways that feel achievable and meaningful, whether by taking part in an existing event or creating their own fundraising initiative,” Sarah explains.

“I am not a trained singer, but I am passionate about this cause. The Sing-Off is an opportunity to do something bold, memorable and positive to support horses who urgently need help.”

Why Fundraising Has Never Been More Important

Funds raised through the Horse Abandonment Crisis Fund directly enable HAPPA’s welfare teams to:

• Respond swiftly to reports of abandoned or neglected equines
• Deliver emergency veterinary care and long-term rehabilitation
• Provide safe refuge for horses, ponies and donkeys with nowhere else to turn

At a time when welfare charities face mounting pressure, community-driven fundraising initiatives play a vital role in sustaining frontline services.

The Power of Business Supporting Community Welfare

Sarah also highlighted the importance of corporate and community collaboration in supporting charities during challenging economic conditions.

“I would like to thank the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce for creating such an engaging and inclusive fundraising event. Local charities are under immense strain, and initiatives like the Sing-Off provide both financial support and much-needed visibility.”

The Great Chamber Sing-Off demonstrates how business leadership can be a powerful force for social impact when aligned with meaningful causes.

How You Can Support Sarah and HAPPA

Tickets for the East Lancs Chamber Great Chamber Sing-Off are available now via the Burnley Mechanics Theatre ticket office.

All funds raised by Sarah will directly support HAPPA’s Horse Abandonment Crisis Fund.
If you would like to contribute, you can donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/the-singing-ceo

Every donation helps ensure that horses, ponies and donkeys in distress continue to receive the care, protection and advocacy they deserve.