Can it stop 🤬raining please? So many jobs to do. ☔️ 🙏 🐎 🇬🇧
Feb 11
Some wounds can’t be seen — but they can be healed. 🐎✨
At HorseBack UK, we witness it every day: the quiet power of horses helping people rebuild, reconnect, and move forward after physical or mental injury.
Our new documentary, now live via the link 🔗 in our bio, explores these deeply human stories and the extraordinary role horses play in recovery, resilience, and hope.
Watch the film. Feel the connection. Share the journey.
🎥 🐎
#HorseBackUK #HealingThroughHorses #EquineAssistedServices #InvisibleWounds #Recovery Resilience Hope
Dec 23
In the quiet hills of Aboyne, The Highlands of Scotland, something extraordinary is happening. Through the gentle power of horses, lives shaped by trauma are finding a new way forward. (🔗 Click the link in the bio to watch the full film)
The Healing Power of Horses is a cinematic short documentary that steps inside the world of HorseBack UK, a pioneering charity using equine-assisted therapy to help military veterans, emergency service personnel, and young people rebuild confidence, trust, and resilience.
Filmed with an intimate, fly-on-the-wall approach, this film captures raw, unscripted moments where healing begins — not through words, but through connection. Between human and horse. Between past and possibility.
Inside the film:
• The King’s Trust Youth Development Programme – empowering young people with personal growth, employability skills, and recognised qualifications
• Veterans Residential Course – supporting former service personnel living with PTSD as they reconnect, rediscover purpose, and rebuild life after service
Funded by the Sir Peter O’Sullevan Charitable Trust, the documentary draws a powerful parallel between veterans redefining life beyond the uniform and racehorses finding purpose beyond the track — a shared journey of rehabilitation, dignity, and hope.
This is not just a film about horses.
It’s a story about healing, identity, and second chances.
About slowing down, listening, and discovering strength where you least expect it.
If you believe in the power of compassion, connection, and meaningful storytelling, this film is for you.
#horsebackuk #youthdevelopment #fyp
Dec 22
🌟 Today we meet Georgia Auld, our Yard Assistant here at the centre. In her own words she tells us how she came to HorseBack UK as part of our accredited Schools Personal Development Programme, then as work experience, and now working here full time with us as part of the team…
🐎 🇬🇧 🏴
Aug 20
Happy New Year from HorseBack UK!🌟
As we step into 2025, we are filled with gratitude for the impactful journey we took together and take a moment to reflect on last year. 2024 saw the charity transform lives through our equine-assisted services and mindfulness activity based wellbeing courses. Our programmes, courses and workshop’s reached individuals of all ages, from veterans finding healing and respite through our horses to young people discovering confidence and resilience.
In 2024, we proudly served over 300 participants, engaging them in equine assisted learning sessions, emotional support through one to one and group interactions, and wellbeing based courses to deal with, manage and reduce stress and anxiety. Each connection made with our incredible horses has empowered individuals to overcome challenges and embrace new possibilities heading for a better, healthier future.
With the support of our charity partners, our volunteers, our dedicated staff and YOU, we’ve witnessed profound changes and inspiring stories. Whether it was through our community outreach initiatives or tailored programmes for those facing mental health struggles; the bond between humans and horses proved to be a source of strength and healing.
Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited to expand our offerings, introducing new workshops, new courses, and collaborations, focused on wellness and personal growth. Together, let’s continue to champion the transformative power of equine-assisted services and make a lasting impact.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Here’s to a bright New Year filled with hope, healing, and the magic of horses! 🐎
#HappyNewYear #HorseBackUK #EquineAssistedServices #HealingWithHorses #CommunityImpact #2025Vision
Jan 1
‼️ Please Help And Please Share
We need all your help urgently!
🌟 Support HorseBack UK: Vote for Mental Health and Wellbeing! 🌟
From 29th November to 16th December 2024, please vote for HorseBack UK in the Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund.
Please use your own Aberdeenshire postcode or if you do not have one use:
‼️ AB34 5LD ‼️ and cast your vote here:
www.avashire.org.uk/cmhwfundvote
This funding will allow us to support up to 90 local adults struggling with social and rural isolation, neurodiversity, anxiety, and more. Our weekly sessions in Aboyne create a safe space for participants to connect, share experiences, and build trusted relationships.
With the guidance of our qualified staff, participants will engage in life-enhancing activities like equine-assisted learning, archery, yoga, breathwork, bushcraft, and team-building exercises.
Join us in making a difference in our community! Your vote can help improve wellbeing and provide vital support to those in need. 💚🧘♂️
#HorseBackUK #MentalHealthMatters #VoteForWellbeing #Aberdeenshire #Community Aboyne Local
Dec 4
🌨️❄️ 🥶 Brrr! It’s a chilly -5°C today at HorseBack UK, but that hasn’t stopped the incredible Banchory Academy Schools Development Group from shining bright! 🌟
The team is showing off their skills and building bonds with some of our 42 beautiful horses at the accredited learning centre. With the farrier by our side, everyone is learning about teamwork and equine-assisted learning in such a fun way! Despite the cold, the warmth of teamwork and learning brings joy to us all.
🐴❤️👉 Please like and share to spread the love!
#HorseBackUK #BanchoryAcademy #EquineLearning #teamwork
Dec 3
News Flash! ⚠️
We are extremely honoured and thrilled to announce that HorseBack UK has won the Armed Forces Employee Recognition Gold Award, for our unwavering commitment to the Armed Forces Community!
Here is our amazing Programme Lead, Richard Taff Teague, proudly accepting the award at the The Black Watch Castle & Museum last night. A fantastic night was had, and a very proud moment for us as a charity that has helped so many serving military personnel and military veterans over the past 15 years. Thank you to everyone who supports us!
@highlandrfca
#HorsebackUK #GoldERS24 #EmployeeRecognitionSheme #ArmedForces #FundraisingSuccess #ProudMoment #YouthDevelopment
Nov 15
We’re delighted to announce a partnership with @thebeastukofficial (formerly “UK Maiden Experience) a brand new Iron Maiden tribute show who are touring UK theatres next year!
These guys are preparing an incredible show for 2025 with stage show, pyrotechnics and more! We’re incredibly proud to be partnered with them for their tour next year.
The Beast UK are pledging £1 of every ticket sold to our charity! They have an estimated 10,000 tickets for sale!
TOUR DATES ANNOUNCED - Wednesday 13th November
ON SALE - Saturday 16th November!!
Stay tuned for more from ourselves and The Beast UK, as they’re traveling up in December to take part in some horse related actives and even playing a few songs up here!
Be sure to get your tickets!
Visit them at @thebeastukofficial or www.thebeastuk.co.uk
Oct 30
We’re back! Swipe to see a small collection of photos from our recent visit to Normandy. From the historic Pegasus Bridge to the solemn fields of Juno Beach, each location holds a story of bravery and sacrifice. 🌍
Stay tuned as we share more behind-the-scenes insights and reflections that we didn’t capture live. This journey has been one of profound remembrance and renewed commitment. #DDay80 #Normandy2024 #HBUKDDayRide
Jun 12
Take a look at this conversation between Jock and William!
As we rode, we delved into the importance of camaraderie and unity among the allies—French, Brits, and Americans—whose bonds were forged in the fires of WWII and remain essential today. Our conversation was a powerful reminder that the freedom we cherish is a result of enduring partnerships and shared sacrifices.
It’s vital we preserve these memories and continue to share the stories of those who fought for our liberty. As we enjoyed a moment of light-heartedness with a ‘drinky poo’ in our bell forts, we reaffirmed our commitment to stay united in honour and remembrance.
Thank you, William, for the camaraderie on this ride and the ongoing mission to keep history alive. We’re looking forward to continuing this journey together in September.
Share in the comments anything you want us to answer, wed love to chat with you
#DDay80 #Normandy2024 #AlliedUnity #FreedomRide #HBUKDday80
Jun 6
Yesterday took us to Grandcamp-Maisy, just 2.4km from Pointe Du Hoc on the historic Omaha Beach, where the 2nd and 5th U.S. Rangers bravely fought to dismantle the Maisy Gun Emplacement Batteries. 🎖️ Amidst this profound backdrop, we had the unexpected honor of meeting Brigadier General Jonathan P. Braga, Commander of Special Operations Command, Pacific, along with his wonderful family.
The Brigadier General shared poignant reflections on the significance of being here for the 80th D-Day anniversary. ‘There’s no better place to be with the last remaining members of the Greatest Generation that fought for the freedom of the world,’ he expressed, emphasizing the importance of family support in both military and civilian life.
Swipe to see moments from our meeting and hear more about how their family’s presence enriches this commemoration. It’s a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of those who serve and the families who stand by them. 🌍✨
We’re deeply grateful for the chance to connect and share stories of courage, legacy, and the unbreakable bonds of family. #DDay80 #normandy #VeteranSupport #HonorAndRemember
Jun 6
Early risers today as we headed to the iconic Deauville Racecourse for a meaningful meet-up with Aaron Gryder, former American Champion Jockey and VP at 1/ST Racing, one of our proud sponsors. 🐎🌅
Aaron and our own Jock delved into a topic close to our hearts: finding new purpose for former racehorses. These majestic animals, much like veterans, seek a second chapter after their first careers end, and we’re dedicated to helping them transition smoothly.
It’s partnerships like these with 1/ST Racing and support from organizations like EIF-Equine Immersion Foundation and Racing To Relate that amplify our efforts and impact. Together, we’re creating pathways that honor and repurpose the strength and spirit of these incredible horses.
Stay tuned as we explore more ways to make a difference. DDay80 #neverforget #hbukdday80
Jun 6
Today, we mark 80 years since D-Day, the monumental day that shifted the tide of World War II. 🌊🕊️ On June 6th, 1944, thousands of brave souls from the Allied forces landed on the beaches of Normandy, braving the frontline of fire to reclaim freedom from tyranny.
As HBUK reflect on the immense courage and profound sacrifices of those who fought for a future they believed in—a future where liberty prevails over oppression. Their heroism not only liberated Europe but also shaped the peaceful world we cherish today.
Let’s honor and remember every valiant heart. Their legacy of bravery continues to inspire generations. We will never forget. 🎖️ #DDay80 #NeverForget #Freedom #DDAY80 #HBUKDDAY80
Jun 6
Last night we stood in the quiet early hours, we witness the stirring commemorations of the Pegasus Bridge assault, exactly 80 years ago to the minute. 🌉 #DDay80
Pegasus Bridge, initially named Bénouville Bridge, was a critical early battleground during the D-Day operations. In a daring mission that marked one of the first ground actions of D-Day, 180 troops of the Ox and Bucks Light Infantry, led by Major John Howard, skillfully captured these strategic points. Their incredible precision allowed them to land in Horsa gliders mere meters from their objectives, securing both bridges in under ten minutes.
The scene today is electric, with fireworks illuminating the sky, mirroring the explosive history of this site as thousands gather to honor the bravery that turned the tides of war. Brigadier Lord Lovat’s commandos, famously led ashore to the sounds of Bill Millin’s bagpipes against all orders, reinforced the critical eastern flank, leaving a legacy of bold defiance and Scottish pride.
Join us in reflecting on this pivotal moment in history, celebrating the fearless spirit of those who fought for freedom. 🎖️🎶 #paratrooper #commando #fypシ #PegasusBridge #DDay80 #DDay #HBUKDday80 #Dday80
Jun 6
Today, here from jock as they stand solemnly at the British War Memorial in Normandy, a sacred site that echoes the sacrifices made 80 years ago. As HBUK walked among the silhouettes representing fallen soldiers and read the plaques dedicated by their loved ones, the weight of their sacrifices felt all the more real.
These young heroes, aged 19, 21, 22, left a legacy of freedom forged in the harrowing sands of these beaches. This memorial, with names etched on every pillar, serves as a stark reminder of the price paid for our liberty.
We urge you to visit, to bring your children, and to teach them about the tremendous cost of peace. Let them learn about the unsung battlefields, the countless lives lost beyond what history books capture.
This is more than history; it’s a pilgrimage to honor all who gave everything for us to live freely. If this place doesn’t move you, nothing will.
Fly past rehearsals are underway for tomorrow’s D-Day 80 commemorations. Let’s remember, reflect, and educate.
#DDay80 #Normandy2024 #BritishWarMemorial #NeverForget #HBUKDDAY80 #RememberanceRide
Jun 5
There’s something special about the journey up the drive to the HorseBack UK Centre.
You can almost feel the shift begin before a single word is spoken. Cars arrive carrying more than just people they bring stories, pressure, fatigue, and the quiet weight of everything life has piled on. For many of our attendees, that first step out of the car is filled with uncertainty, even anxiety. Shoulders tight. Minds racing. Hearts guarded.
But then… something changes.
Maybe it’s the stillness of the landscape. Maybe it’s the gentle presence of the horses. Or maybe it’s the first deep breath they’ve taken in a long time.
Over the course of their time here, barriers begin to soften. The horses don’t judge, don’t rush, don’t expect, they simply respond, honestly and instinctively. In that space, people start to reconnect with themselves. Confidence grows. Tension eases. Perspective returns.
By the time they leave, it’s often hard to believe they’re the same person who arrived.
Smiles replace worry. Laughter comes more easily. There’s a lightness in their step, a calmness in their mind, and a renewed sense of capability and purpose.
It’s not just a course. It’s a reset. A reminder of strength. A chance to let go, even just for a while.
And it all starts with that drive.
#HorseBackUK #MentalHealthMatters #HealingWithHorses #VeteransSupport #WellbeingJourney ... See MoreSee Less
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‼️ Farm Chores Continue 👀
The last load of hay is in the barn 🌾🐴
Here at HorseBack UK, we’ve just taken delivery of what we hope will be our final hay supply of the winter season. It’s been a long one, and we’re more than ready to see the fields come back to life again.
Now we’re looking ahead to brighter days, lighter evenings, and the welcome return of fresh grass under hoof ☀️🌱
Here’s to warmer weather, growing pastures, and our horses enjoying the best that spring and summer have to offer.
Come on sunshine… we’re ready for you! 🙌 ... See MoreSee Less
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Track System 👀 ... See MoreSee Less
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😮 The Track System 👀
April Showers Bring Forth Flowers 🌺🐎
There’s been plenty happening behind the scenes lately! We’ve been running courses and were honoured to host The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery for a wellbeing week, where they’ve been learning and training in Equine Assisted Services with us here in Aboyne, Aberdeenshire, Scotland.
Now, with a welcome break in the weather, it’s time to turn our attention back to farm chores and a bit of land management 🌱
Here we talk about our track system and discover the many benefits it brings to both horses and their wellbeing.
Spring is in full swing, and so are we 🌿✨ ☀️
#fyp #horses #spring ... See MoreSee Less
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‼️ Fantastic News
We are extremely proud to announce that our very own Youth Development Programme Lead Richard ‘Taff’ Teague is a finalist in this years Scottish Veterans Awards as Role Model of the Year! Taff has put his all into what we do here, not only in his primary role as Lead but also working with our veterans course. Please show your support and share 😊Can we all please welcome Richard Teague who is a finalist in the Role Model of the Year, sonsored by Print Inc.
I Joined the Territorial Army in 1979 -100 Field Squadron, Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers (Militia) Served 4.5 years Joined the Regular Army in Apr 1984 to Apr 2013 Pte to RSM, Capt to Maj, - 23 Pioneer Regt RLC Served 30 years Rejoined the Army Reserve - Aberdeen Universities Officer Training Corps as the Quartermaster (FTRS). Served 8 years. I Retired in Jan 2022 after 42 years in uniform.
Currently employed at HorseBack UK, supporting and delivering Equine Assisted Learning and Wellbeing to serving members of our Armed Forces, Military Veterans, Schools and Delivering the King's Trust Team Programme in Personal Development and Employability Skills to young learners aged 16-25 Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET).
Being shortlisted at the awards means a great deal to me. It represents recognition of the hard work, dedication, and passion that went into what we do at HorseBack UK. Out of the many nominees, being selected as one of the finalists shows that the effort and impact of the work have been noticed and valued by my nominator and the judges. It is also motivating and encouraging. Being shortlisted reassures me that I am moving in the right direction and inspires me to continue improving and contributing even more. Regardless of the final outcome, simply being shortlisted is an honour and an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and efforts that made it possible.
Being nominated for Role Model of the Year at the Scottish Veterans Awards. It is truly an honour to be recognised alongside so many inspiring individuals who have made a positive difference within the veterans’ and military community. Being shortlisted for this award is both humbling and motivating. It encourages me to continue doing my best to support and uplift others, and to keep working towards making a positive difference.
HorseBack UK inspires positive change, encourages confidence and self esteem, and promotes recovery in an individual. Using horsemanship and outdoor activities, we deliver nationally accredited personal development and wellbeing programmes which offer our participants new coping strategies, life skills and the tools to build resilience.
Good luck to all the finalists and we can't wait to celebrate with you on the night itself!
#veteransawards #military #veterans ... See MoreSee Less
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🤩 It’s been a hugely busy and rewarding few weeks here at HorseBack UK and we’re sorry we’ve been a little quiet on here! With a small team doing big things, sometimes social updates unfortunately take a back seat as we rush around all over the country… but here’s what we’ve been up to… 😮💨
🙌 Over the past three weeks, we’ve delivered our extremely popular wellbeing course to military veterans at our centre in Aboyne 🏴, working alongside our incredible herd of horses 🐎
We’ve also been proud to deliver another wellbeing and mental health course this time at Phoenix House in Catterick 🏴 for injured military personnel, in partnership with the Armed Forces Equine Charity. This work was supported by the superb horses at Catterick Saddle Club a fantastic collaboration making a real difference.
This week, we’ve been working with and hosting 🏴 the Riding House Department of His Majesty’s Ordnance, The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery, delivering a mental health and wellbeing programme. Alongside supporting positive mental health for serving soldiers 🫡, we’ve been sharing different approaches to working with and training horses, particularly through Equine Assisted Services. 💚
😮 During their time with us, The King’s Troop also had the privilege of meeting Dr Paul Anderson MBE, the renowned Scottish fiddler, composer, and teacher from Tarland, Aberdeenshire, widely considered the finest Scots fiddler of his generation. He provided a fascinating cultural and historical tour of the local area and Migvie Kirk ⛪️ , as well as performing a couple of his own beautifully composed pieces on the violin, a truly special experience for all involved
🎻 🎶🏔️ 🏴
🎥 And as if that wasn’t enough, we were visited over the previous weekends by Agility Films, who are working on some very exciting projects with us… it’s all top secret for now, but we can’t wait to share more soon!
‼️ We’ve got lots more projects planned across the UK this year, along with some really incredible and exciting developments and partnerships on the horizon that we will be releasing this month. 🤩
🙏 So, thank you for your continued support and patience, but please stay tuned! There’s so much more to come that will amaze you over the next few days and weeks. 🤯
Have a lovely weekend everyone. 💙
Team HB 🫡 🐎 🇬🇧
#horses #military #fyp @top fans Aboyne Local ... See MoreSee Less
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‼️ Update 🥊
We are proud to announce that young Peter Cowie won his bout last night in the first round TKO (41s)
Very well done, we are all very proud of this young man and thank him for raising money for the charity🙏
There is still time to donate here: givestar.io/gs/ultra-white-collar-boxing-fundraising-43932
#boxing #fight #champion #sport
Aboyne Local ... See MoreSee Less
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👀 Seconds Out: Round 2 for Peter Cowie 🥊
After a very close fight last time and raising an amazing £275 for HorseBack UK, Peter Cowie is stepping back into the ring again, TOMORROW NIGHT!
If you saw his last bout, you’ll know he leaves everything in there. Get behind him… because trust us, you definitely don’t want to be in front of him 😅
Peter came through one of our Pupil Personal Development Courses from Aboyne Academy, and seeing his confidence, discipline, and determination shine like this makes us incredibly proud.
So far he has raised £85. Let’s show him some support and help him smash his fundraising goal this time. Every donation and share counts!
👉 Donate here: givestar.io/gs/ultra-white-collar-boxing-fundraising-43932
Support Peter. Support HorseBack UK. Let’s go! 👊
#ProudMoment #boxing ... See MoreSee Less
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