Affordable Young Persons Therapy at KEFL

The environment

How We Operate as a Company That Supports the Environment KEFL CIC operates with a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and the protection of our natural surroundings. All of our therapeutic and equine learning sessions take place outdoors, and we actively manage our land in a way that supports biodiversity, soil health, and the wellbeing of the animals in our care. We prioritise low‑impact practices, such as responsible grazing management, careful maintenance of fields and woodland areas, and the use of natural materials wherever possible. Our approach encourages young people to develop respect for the environment by involving them in daily routines that promote animal welfare, land stewardship, and an understanding of how to care for natural spaces. By embedding environmental awareness into our everyday operations, we not only protect our setting but also inspire young people to value and safeguard the natural world around them.

The local economy

How Our Project Helped the Local Economy Our project contributed positively to the local economy by creating and sustaining employment within a community‑based organisation. By securing a permanent young persons’ counsellor, we generated a skilled local job and ensured ongoing professional work within the area. KEFL CIC also supports the local economy through regular purchasing of feed, equipment, clothing, and services from nearby suppliers, helping small businesses thrive. In addition, our volunteering programme provides valuable work experience and skills development for local students and community members, strengthening future employability and supporting the wider workforce pipeline. By improving young people’s wellbeing, confidence, and engagement in education, the project also contributes to long‑term economic resilience, helping more young people move towards training, further education, and future employment. Overall, the project has created a ripple effect of economic and social value across the local community.

Volunteering, jobs & education

How Our Project Increased Volunteering, Jobs and Education Our project increased volunteering, jobs and education by creating meaningful opportunities for young people and the wider community to develop skills, gain experience and move towards positive futures. Through our integrated equine learning and counselling service, young people were supported to attend school more regularly and re‑engage with their education. As their confidence, emotional stability and self‑awareness improved, many felt more capable of exploring further education, training pathways and future employment options. The project also strengthened local volunteering. KEFL CIC welcomes volunteers from a range of backgrounds, including structured placements for Mid Kent College Animal Care students, who gain hands‑on experience in animal care, land‑based work and supporting young people in a therapeutic environment. All volunteers are interviewed, assessed and DBS‑checked to ensure a safe, supportive setting where they can build practical skills and confidence that enhance their future employability. By improving young people’s wellbeing, offering real‑world volunteering opportunities and supporting pathways into education and employment, the project has created long‑lasting benefits for individuals and the wider community.

Activity, health and leisure

How Our Project Promoted Activity, Health and Leisure Our project promoted activity, health and leisure by providing young people with regular opportunities to be outdoors, physically active and engaged in meaningful experiences with horses and nature. All sessions take place in our natural environment, encouraging movement, fresh air and time away from screens and indoor stressors. Working with horses requires gentle physical activity, coordination and presence, which supports both physical health and emotional regulation. The addition of a permanent counsellor strengthened this by helping young people develop healthier coping strategies, reduce anxiety and improve overall wellbeing. By supplying appropriate clothing and equipment, we ensured that all young people—regardless of background—could safely access outdoor activity in all weathers. The project created a positive, enjoyable leisure space where young people could build confidence, connect with animals, and experience the therapeutic benefits of being active in nature.