Horses Helping People CIC – Case Study

Horses Helping People aims to provide therapeutic horsemanship activities for

children and adults from disadvantaged backgrounds. Therapeutic horsemanship

benefits a wide range of adults and children, including those with behavioural

challenges, mental health problems and learning difficulties. It helps to improve

mental and physical wellbeing and social skills.

Debbie La-Haye, Director, already knowledgeable in providing activities for

individuals needing support, realised she could also involve volunteers with extra

support needs to help maintain the farm and approached Community Impact Bucks.

Helen Cavill, supported volunteering co-ordinator, met with Debbie and was able to

give feedback on a number of issues to help develop a new supported volunteering

session on Sunrise Care Farm. A plan was established whereby referral agencies such

as mental health groups were contacted to encourage their clients to volunteer.

Initially, the support workers are to make contact with Community Impact Bucks so

an assessment can be done before referring onto Debbie. Once an individual has

been referred, they will attend the volunteering session accompanied by their own

support worker.

The activities will provide a framework through which individuals can decide to take

on a range of new challenges and experiences, with the added benefit that the work

carried out will help to keep the farm running smoothly by assisting with weeding,

mucking out the animals, conservation work and gardening. Vulnerable adults and

those suffering from mental distress are encouraged to take part. Monday afternoon

is exclusively for volunteers with extra support needs and would be suitable for

individuals or small groups.

We were able to advise on barriers volunteers may face such as needing extra

supervision, suitable times of day and developing a tailored application form to

include details of health issues and support worker. The volunteer session will start

at 1pm which is more achievable for many, especially those on medication.

Debbie La-Haye says, “We are used to working with volunteers who can work

independently, but it became clear there was a need for supported volunteering

opportunities. We were keen to provide this, but wanted to make sure it was set up

correctly. This is where Helen’s expertise was invaluable. We talked through our

ideas and concerns, and found Helen could not only offer initial advice, but ongoing

support as well. The help from Community Impact really made a difference in getting

the project up and running.”