We witnessed significant improvement in mental health of humans who participated in Equine Facilitated Learning with our horses, especially since covid 19 lockdowns and in participants who have experienced life changing circumstances which have affected their daily routines. We now have two trustees with extra qualifications; an EFL Diploma who can run Jigsaw ranch sessions part and full days to help enhance people’s quality of life. We have started with a few ponies at a local yard but would like to lease/rent a large farm building and yard to expand our project this winter; we can then offer continuity whatever the weather being under cover and safe. We require funding for rent and also to purchase extra equipment such as a round pen, a few jump poles, blocks, rope halters and long ropes etc., along with journals for the students and clients to record their achievements. Our vision is for our centre to be open to all, irrespective of physical or learning ability.

What we'll deliver:

• Rent /lease farm building for a min of 12 months (hopefully to continue on after)
• Purchase equipment such as a round pen
• Purchase table & chairs & journals for records of achievement
• Purchase of adaptive equipment

Why it's a great idea:

The benefits to the local community will be enormous with help and support given to children and adults with stress and anxiety issues, learning difficulties, adults and teenagers with addictions and older people with dementia, Alzheimer’s and loneliness issues. It will bring people of all ages , different ethnicities, cultures, communities together through love for animals. This work will also help our rescue horses, ponies and goats etc to fulfil their lives after their rescue & rehabilitation. We have no doubts in this project as we have seen first hand on a smaller scale how this can work over the last few years but we have been restricted with lack of premises, facilities & essential equipment to enhance the safety of more vulnerable people who wish to participate.

Steps to get it done:

• Sign lease and secure farm premises
• Install round pen
• Keep track of achievements of clients
• Send 2 existing volunteers on EFL courses
• Expand current client base to clear current waiting list of 22persons
• Move horses into barns and buildings
• Advertise charity services more widely

We have a group of five trustees in place for the charity - along with committee members & a team of volunteers (some on a waiting list ready to help us with our expansion project)