Animal Assisted Intervention

Equine-Connect

Equine-Connect
How to access: Contact provider directly to discuss / arrange a visit
Funding options: Self-funded / parent-carer funded
Where/how it is delivered: Outdoor / nature-based, Provider setting / venue
When/how often: One-off / occasional sessions, Weekly / regular sessions
Approach: Therapeutic
Needs and circumstances supported: Emotionally based school avoidance, No diagnosis required / awaiting assessment, SEMH
May be suitable for: Confidence and Wellbeing, NEET / at risk of becoming NEET, Re-engagement with education
Age range: Primary (5-11 years), Secondary (11–16 years), Post 16 (16-19 years), Post 19 (19–25 years)
Activities & Interests: Animal care, Horse riding / equestrian, Outdoor activity
Support and provision features: 1:1 learning, Bespoke Package / curriculum, Quiet space, Therapeutic support
How and when provision is delivered: Full day – approximately 5 hours, Half day – approximately 2–4 hours, In person, Weekend, Weekly session
Funding and referral routes: Charity-funded, Parent or carer-funded, Profession referral, Self-referral - Subject to criteria being met

Equine-Connect

Equine-Connect, based at Smiths Farm near Bodmin, provides individually tailored equine-assisted therapeutic sessions for children and adults experiencing mental health challenges, trauma, low confidence, behavioural difficulties, learning differences and other additional needs.

Sessions take place in a calm, supportive environment where participants build a connection with horses through activities such as grooming, feeding, horse care, herd observation and practical ground-based exercises. The therapeutic sessions are non-ridden, focusing on personal growth, emotional wellbeing and confidence rather than learning to ride.

Working alongside horses can help develop communication, trust, resilience, emotional regulation, independence and self-belief. Every programme is tailored to the individual, with sessions available as a one-off experience or as ongoing support over several weeks or months.

Equine-Connect also offers horse riding lessons and Care, Groom and Ride sessions, giving children and young people the opportunity to learn horse care, stable management and riding skills in a safe, supportive environment. Occasional grant-funded projects are available through Equine-Connect CIC to help make therapeutic sessions more accessible.

Important: The therapeutic sessions are non-ridden. Riding lessons are a separate offering. The existing description correctly distinguishes them, so keep that distinction.

Families can contact Equine-Connect directly to discuss their needs, as an EHCP or professional referral is not required.

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