HorsesforWellbeing

In memory of Christina Knudsen

Our Mission

Horses for Wellbeing empowers children and young people to heal through connection with horses

Equine-Assisted Learning for Children & Adolescents​

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Testimonials

“Thank you so much for welcoming R, making him feel included, and taking your time with him. As expected, it took R a little longer than the rest of the group to feel comfortable and safe, and finally, he joined the group without me (or a family member), which was a beautiful feeling for us all. I cannot thank you all enough for helping R get to this point, he has left saying he felt included, safe and excited, which is more than I could have wished for”

Parent of a participant

“Horses for Wellbeing has really helped with my daughter’s confidence and her mental wellbeing. She has gone from shutting herself away in her room not wanting to talk or interact with anyone, to cooking herself food, tidying up, and generally a lot happier. She always comes out of her sessions happy and talking about the horses on the journey home where on the way she hardly says a word. I would highly recommend the sessions”

Parent of a participant

Every child deserves confidence, connection, and hope

“Horses for Wellbeing made me feel more confident and happy. I really enjoyed working with the horses, especially Archie. It has helped me come out of my shell”

15-year old participant

“They’ve helped me through the roughest time of my life. I feel as if people should confide in animals a lot more. They have such a better understanding and understand you better than yourself. The team at Horses for Wellbeing is incredible and would 10/10 recommend to send your kids or even yourself if they/you are struggling with something significant in your life”

13-year old participant

“Just wanted to email you to say how much O is enjoying her sessions with Horses for Wellbeing. O returns home calm and regulated and in a total dream about the time she has at her session”

Parent of a participant

“H absolutely loved the session and would not stop talking about her favourite horses Archie & Faith and all the activities she had done, so thank you. H even wants to look at doing riding lessons now too”

Parent of a participant

“My daughter has loved every session with you. It’s made such a difference to life. Thank you for the amazing work you do”

Parent of a participant

“I know that with certain students this has been a life-saving experience and whilst the student is unable to participate at the moment, I know when time is possible they will be there again in a heartbeat. She would love the chance to spend the day and more time with you guys and the same goes for another two of the students who have had great pleasure from coming”

Secondary school teacher

“I found everyone welcoming and friendly and informative and kept up to date with feedback. The students always enjoyed their sessions, their only regret was they wanted to do more of it and for longer, I will definitely be taking more students”

Secondary school teacher

“One student in particular has struggled with confidence and social interaction. Following her engagement in the programme she has applied to join the riding for disabled program as a volunteer”

Secondary school teacher

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We're on instagram

We’ve been featured by the BBC!

This article calls for urgent change: we must look beyond traditional therapies and fund organisations like ours to support young people before they reach crisis point.

At Horses for Wellbeing, we offer something different - something that works. Through connection, nature, and the gentle presence of horses, children start to feel safe, seen, and empowered again.

We’re so proud to have BBC News and BBC Radio Gloucestershire share our story — and the voices of the young people and professionals who believe in what we do.

Link in bio to read the full article.

BBC Points West will be airing the TV feature this evening — tune in!

#BBCNews #HorsesForWellbeing #ChildrensMentalHealth #BeyondTherapy #EarlyIntervention #EquineFacilitatedLearning #CharitySupport #SENDsupport #MentalHealthMatters

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We’ve been featured by the BBC! This article calls for urgent change: we must look beyond traditional therapies and fund organisations like ours to support young people before they reach crisis point. At Horses for Wellbeing, we offer something different - something that works. Through connection, nature, and the gentle presence of horses, children start to feel safe, seen, and empowered again. We’re so proud to have BBC News and BBC Radio Gloucestershire share our story — and the voices of the young people and professionals who believe in what we do. Link in bio to read the full article. BBC Points West will be airing the TV feature this evening — tune in! #BBCNews #HorsesForWellbeing #ChildrensMentalHealth #BeyondTherapy #EarlyIntervention #EquineFacilitatedLearning #CharitySupport #SENDsupport #MentalHealthMatters

“My therapist sleeps in a stable”

One of our young people arrived wearing this today - and we couldn’t agree more! 🦄🤍

This jumper says it perfectly — sometimes the greatest healing doesn’t happen in a room, but in a stable, beside a horse.

#equineassistedlearning #horsesforhealing #equinetherapy #horsesofinstagram #empowerement #youthwork #wellbeing #alternativeprovision #mentalhealthawareness

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“My therapist sleeps in a stable” One of our young people arrived wearing this today - and we couldn’t agree more! 🦄🤍 This jumper says it perfectly — sometimes the greatest healing doesn’t happen in a room, but in a stable, beside a horse. #equineassistedlearning #horsesforhealing #equinetherapy #horsesofinstagram #empowerement #youthwork #wellbeing #alternativeprovision #mentalhealthawareness

🌟 Meet the Team Series: Introducing Holly Lynall 🌟

Next up in our Meet the Team series is the lovely Holly Lynall, one of our incredible volunteers here at Horses for Wellbeing.

Holly’s journey with horses began with a very cheeky Shetland pony, and it’s safe to say she’s been hooked ever since! She went on to compete with the Welsh Junior Eventing Team and even gave point-to-point racing a go!

Outside of her love for horses, Holly works as a family support worker, a role she finds hugely rewarding. She’s passionate about helping families make meaningful, positive changes that benefit the children in their care.

We’re so lucky to have Holly on our team. Her experience, empathy, and joyful energy are felt by everyone, especially the children she meets through her volunteering with us.💙

Thank you, Holly, for everything you bring to Horses for Wellbeing!

#MeetTheTeam #HorsesForWellbeing #VolunteerSpotlight #EquineFacilitatedLearning #SupportWorker #ChildWellbeing #MakingADifference #FromShetlandsToSupport

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🌟 Meet the Team Series: Introducing Holly Lynall 🌟 Next up in our Meet the Team series is the lovely Holly Lynall, one of our incredible volunteers here at Horses for Wellbeing. Holly’s journey with horses began with a very cheeky Shetland pony, and it’s safe to say she’s been hooked ever since! She went on to compete with the Welsh Junior Eventing Team and even gave point-to-point racing a go! Outside of her love for horses, Holly works as a family support worker, a role she finds hugely rewarding. She’s passionate about helping families make meaningful, positive changes that benefit the children in their care. We’re so lucky to have Holly on our team. Her experience, empathy, and joyful energy are felt by everyone, especially the children she meets through her volunteering with us.💙 Thank you, Holly, for everything you bring to Horses for Wellbeing! #MeetTheTeam #HorsesForWellbeing #VolunteerSpotlight #EquineFacilitatedLearning #SupportWorker #ChildWellbeing #MakingADifference #FromShetlandsToSupport

💙 Support Us Without Spending a Penny! 💙

Did you know there’s a simple way to support Horses for Wellbeing without spending any extra money? Through #easyfundraising, you can raise free funds for us every time you shop online – at no extra cost to you!

It’s super easy:
1️⃣ Sign up for free with easyfundraising.
2️⃣ Shop at big retailers like John Lewis & Partners, Expedia, Argos, Just Eat, and many more.
3️⃣ A percentage of your purchase will be donated to us, all without you spending a single extra penny.

Every little bit helps us continue our mission of supporting children’s wellbeing through equine-assisted learning. You can start raising funds today, simply by doing what you already do – shopping online! 🙌

🔗 Sign up now and start raising funds: [link in bio]

Let’s make every purchase count for a good cause! Thank you for supporting us in this unique way. 💙

#HorsesForWellbeing #EasyFundraising #ShopAndGive #SupportingChildren #MakeADifference #NoExtraCost

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💙 Support Us Without Spending a Penny! 💙 Did you know there’s a simple way to support Horses for Wellbeing without spending any extra money? Through #easyfundraising, you can raise free funds for us every time you shop online – at no extra cost to you! It’s super easy: 1️⃣ Sign up for free with easyfundraising. 2️⃣ Shop at big retailers like John Lewis & Partners, Expedia, Argos, Just Eat, and many more. 3️⃣ A percentage of your purchase will be donated to us, all without you spending a single extra penny. Every little bit helps us continue our mission of supporting children’s wellbeing through equine-assisted learning. You can start raising funds today, simply by doing what you already do – shopping online! 🙌 🔗 Sign up now and start raising funds: [link in bio] Let’s make every purchase count for a good cause! Thank you for supporting us in this unique way. 💙 #HorsesForWellbeing #EasyFundraising #ShopAndGive #SupportingChildren #MakeADifference #NoExtraCost

We’re excited to announce that Horses for Wellbeing is now officially part of the Equine Assisted Services Partnership (EASP) and the Human Equine Interaction Register (HEIR)! 🐴💙

Being part of these respected organisations allows us to connect with a network of professionals and researchers who are dedicated to advancing the field of equine-assisted services. This membership helps ensure that we remain at the forefront of best practices, enabling us to provide the highest quality support to the children and young people we work with.

We’re incredibly grateful for the opportunities this brings and look forward to continuing to learn, grow, and create lasting impact in the lives of the young people we serve.

#EASP #HEIR #EquineAssistedServices #HorsesForWellbeing #ProfessionalDevelopment #EquineTherapy #CommunitySupport #EquineAssistedLearning

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We’re excited to announce that Horses for Wellbeing is now officially part of the Equine Assisted Services Partnership (EASP) and the Human Equine Interaction Register (HEIR)! 🐴💙 Being part of these respected organisations allows us to connect with a network of professionals and researchers who are dedicated to advancing the field of equine-assisted services. This membership helps ensure that we remain at the forefront of best practices, enabling us to provide the highest quality support to the children and young people we work with. We’re incredibly grateful for the opportunities this brings and look forward to continuing to learn, grow, and create lasting impact in the lives of the young people we serve. #EASP #HEIR #EquineAssistedServices #HorsesForWellbeing #ProfessionalDevelopment #EquineTherapy #CommunitySupport #EquineAssistedLearning

❗️ Weekend Groom Wanted – Elkstone 🐴❗️

We are looking for a reliable and passionate Weekend Groom to join our team at Horses for Wellbeing. The role involves a few hours of work on both Saturday and Sunday, helping with the daily care and routine of our horses.

Key Responsibilities
• Feeding and mucking out
• Ensuring the horses are comfortable and well-cared for
• General yard maintenance and cleaning

If you have experience with horses and are looking for part-time work in a beautiful setting, we would love to hear from you!

Interested?
Please send your details or any questions to info@horses4wellbeing.org.uk

#WeekendGroom #HorseCare #Elkstone #EquestrianJob #JoinOurTeam

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❗️ Weekend Groom Wanted – Elkstone 🐴❗️ We are looking for a reliable and passionate Weekend Groom to join our team at Horses for Wellbeing. The role involves a few hours of work on both Saturday and Sunday, helping with the daily care and routine of our horses. Key Responsibilities • Feeding and mucking out • Ensuring the horses are comfortable and well-cared for • General yard maintenance and cleaning If you have experience with horses and are looking for part-time work in a beautiful setting, we would love to hear from you! Interested? Please send your details or any questions to info@horses4wellbeing.org.uk #WeekendGroom #HorseCare #Elkstone #EquestrianJob #JoinOurTeam

🌟 Meet the Team Series: Introducing Kate Hammond 🌟

Next in our Meet the Team series is the wonderful Kate Hammond! Kate joined Horses for Wellbeing right from the start, when we were just launching. She began as a volunteer, and it quickly became clear that her passion for horses and her compassionate nature made her an invaluable part of the team.

A Paediatric Nurse by profession, Kate was seeking a change in career and found her perfect fit with us. Her love for animals and dedication to making a difference in the lives of children shines through in everything she does.

Since joining, Kate has become a key team member, helping care for our horses, supporting the young people in our programmes, and always bringing kindness, warmth and laughter to our work.

Kate’s own horse, Blaze, is now part of our herd, living and working alongside the other horses who support the children in their journeys. We are so grateful to have Blaze and Kate as part of our team, and we can’t wait to see the wonderful things they’ll continue to bring to our sessions. 🐴💙

#MeetTheTeam #HorsesForWellbeing #CompassionateCare #VolunteerToTeamMember #PaediatricNurse #BlazeTheHorse #EquineFacilitatedLearning #AnimalLover

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🌟 Meet the Team Series: Introducing Kate Hammond 🌟 Next in our Meet the Team series is the wonderful Kate Hammond! Kate joined Horses for Wellbeing right from the start, when we were just launching. She began as a volunteer, and it quickly became clear that her passion for horses and her compassionate nature made her an invaluable part of the team. A Paediatric Nurse by profession, Kate was seeking a change in career and found her perfect fit with us. Her love for animals and dedication to making a difference in the lives of children shines through in everything she does. Since joining, Kate has become a key team member, helping care for our horses, supporting the young people in our programmes, and always bringing kindness, warmth and laughter to our work. Kate’s own horse, Blaze, is now part of our herd, living and working alongside the other horses who support the children in their journeys. We are so grateful to have Blaze and Kate as part of our team, and we can’t wait to see the wonderful things they’ll continue to bring to our sessions. 🐴💙 #MeetTheTeam #HorsesForWellbeing #CompassionateCare #VolunteerToTeamMember #PaediatricNurse #BlazeTheHorse #EquineFacilitatedLearning #AnimalLover

We can’t wait to start our new term with our equine-facilitated learning sessions next week!

🐴💙 And we have some fantastic news to share…

Thanks to a generous grant from @johnlewis_cheltenham & @johnlewis as part of their ‘Our Communities Matter Programme’, we’ve been able to offer discounted group sessions to even more young people! ⭐️

This support will allow is to continue creating safe spaces where kids can build confidence, emotional resilience, and connection with our herd. We’re incredibly grateful to John Lewis for helping us make this possible and supporting our mission.

We can’t wait to see the growth and progress of all the young people joining us this term!

#equineassistedlearning #horsesforhealing #equinetherapy #horsesofinstagram #empowerement #youthwork #wellbeing #communitysupport #healthycommunities #supportouryouth

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We can’t wait to start our new term with our equine-facilitated learning sessions next week! 🐴💙 And we have some fantastic news to share… Thanks to a generous grant from @johnlewis_cheltenham & @johnlewis as part of their ‘Our Communities Matter Programme’, we’ve been able to offer discounted group sessions to even more young people! ⭐️ This support will allow is to continue creating safe spaces where kids can build confidence, emotional resilience, and connection with our herd. We’re incredibly grateful to John Lewis for helping us make this possible and supporting our mission. We can’t wait to see the growth and progress of all the young people joining us this term! #equineassistedlearning #horsesforhealing #equinetherapy #horsesofinstagram #empowerement #youthwork #wellbeing #communitysupport #healthycommunities #supportouryouth

🌟 Meet the Team Series: Introducing Katie Hobbs 🌟

Next up in our Meet the Team series is the incredible Katie Hobbs! Katie has 4 years of experience as a teaching assistant, mainly in EYFS but across all year groups. She’s also a passionate advocate for getting children outdoors and connected with nature. 🌱

Katie is a powerhouse of creativity — she’s the one behind the beautiful paintwork in our sensory room and is always thinking of new ways to engage our young people with fun, hands-on activities. From planting trees to creating inspiring outdoor spaces, her green fingers and inventive ideas bring something extra special to our programmes. 🌳🎨

Fun fact: Katie was a Wingwalker for 2 years, performing at airshows around the world! ✈️

We’re so lucky to have Katie on the team, bringing her boundless energy, creativity, and passion for nature to everything she does. 💙

#MeetTheTeam #HorsesForWellbeing #CreativeTeam #GreenFingers #NatureLover #Wingwalker #InspirationInAction

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🌟 Meet the Team Series: Introducing Katie Hobbs 🌟 Next up in our Meet the Team series is the incredible Katie Hobbs! Katie has 4 years of experience as a teaching assistant, mainly in EYFS but across all year groups. She’s also a passionate advocate for getting children outdoors and connected with nature. 🌱 Katie is a powerhouse of creativity — she’s the one behind the beautiful paintwork in our sensory room and is always thinking of new ways to engage our young people with fun, hands-on activities. From planting trees to creating inspiring outdoor spaces, her green fingers and inventive ideas bring something extra special to our programmes. 🌳🎨 Fun fact: Katie was a Wingwalker for 2 years, performing at airshows around the world! ✈️ We’re so lucky to have Katie on the team, bringing her boundless energy, creativity, and passion for nature to everything she does. 💙 #MeetTheTeam #HorsesForWellbeing #CreativeTeam #GreenFingers #NatureLover #Wingwalker #InspirationInAction

We’re so proud of the positive changes we’re seeing in the children we work with! This testimonial from a Secondary School Teacher highlights just one of the many success stories from our equine-facilitated learning programme.

The transformation we witness in students — from struggling with confidence and social interaction to gaining the courage to take on new challenges — is nothing short of inspiring. This student’s journey led her to apply to volunteer with the RDA, and we couldn’t be happier to see her embrace this new opportunity! 🌟

#equineassistedlearning #horsesforhealing #equinetherapy #horsesofinstagram #empowerement #youthwork #wellbeing

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We’re so proud of the positive changes we’re seeing in the children we work with! This testimonial from a Secondary School Teacher highlights just one of the many success stories from our equine-facilitated learning programme. The transformation we witness in students — from struggling with confidence and social interaction to gaining the courage to take on new challenges — is nothing short of inspiring. This student’s journey led her to apply to volunteer with the RDA, and we couldn’t be happier to see her embrace this new opportunity! 🌟 #equineassistedlearning #horsesforhealing #equinetherapy #horsesofinstagram #empowerement #youthwork #wellbeing

🚨 BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: Our Own Lottery is HERE!🚨

✨ Win BIG and Support a Great Cause! ✨

We’ve launched our very own Horses for Wellbeing lottery, and we want YOU to be part of it! By purchasing just one ticket for £1 a week, you’ll have the chance to win up to £25,000 – and all proceeds go directly towards helping us continue our vital work supporting children and young people in need. 🐴💙

Here’s how it works:
🎟️ Tickets: Just £1 a week!
💰 Jackpot: Win up to £25,000!
💪 Impact: Help us keep our programmes running and growing, supporting even more children through equine-assisted learning.

🎯 Why it matters: Your support helps us create safe spaces for kids to heal, grow, and thrive with the help of our incredible horses. This is more than a lottery – it’s a chance to make a real difference.

🔗 Get Your Ticket NOW! LINK IN BIO

🚨 Limited-time opportunity! Be part of something amazing – and WIN BIG while helping children and young people feel empowered! 🎉

Tag your friends and family to spread the word and give them a chance to win too! 🙌💙

#LotteryLaunch #HorsesForWellbeing #WinBig #SupportOurCause #CharityLottery #Fundraising #CommunitySupport #FeelGoodGiveBack #ChildrenAndWellbeing

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🚨 BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: Our Own Lottery is HERE!🚨 ✨ Win BIG and Support a Great Cause! ✨ We’ve launched our very own Horses for Wellbeing lottery, and we want YOU to be part of it! By purchasing just one ticket for £1 a week, you’ll have the chance to win up to £25,000 – and all proceeds go directly towards helping us continue our vital work supporting children and young people in need. 🐴💙 Here’s how it works: 🎟️ Tickets: Just £1 a week! 💰 Jackpot: Win up to £25,000! 💪 Impact: Help us keep our programmes running and growing, supporting even more children through equine-assisted learning. 🎯 Why it matters: Your support helps us create safe spaces for kids to heal, grow, and thrive with the help of our incredible horses. This is more than a lottery – it’s a chance to make a real difference. 🔗 Get Your Ticket NOW! LINK IN BIO 🚨 Limited-time opportunity! Be part of something amazing – and WIN BIG while helping children and young people feel empowered! 🎉 Tag your friends and family to spread the word and give them a chance to win too! 🙌💙 #LotteryLaunch #HorsesForWellbeing #WinBig #SupportOurCause #CharityLottery #Fundraising #CommunitySupport #FeelGoodGiveBack #ChildrenAndWellbeing