🌟 Exciting News from HorseBack! 🌟
👀 Over the past few months, we’ve received so many enquiries asking whether members of the public can take part in our wellbeing programmes…
And we’re delighted to say that the answer is now YES! 🎉
Over the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing more information about how you can get involved, but today we’re excited to introduce our Online Equine Assisted Learning & Wellbeing Programme.
🐎 🧑🎓 “Equine assisted learning online?”
We know…a few years ago we would have thought the same! But during Covid, we adapted our programmes to continue supporting people safely and effectively from a distance. We worked closely with NHS staff during some of their most vulnerable moments, and the programme has continued to make a real impact ever since.
✨ What’s included?
• 8 group Zoom sessions
• Around 1 hour each
• Guided HorseBack learning principles
• Videos of our horses to help explain key concepts and wellbeing techniques
If you’d like to find out more about dates and costs, we’d love to hear from you.
📧 Email: info@horseback.org.uk
📞 Phone: 013398 80487
#Wellbeing #EquineAssistedLearning #MentalHealthSupport #HorseBack #OnlineWellbeing PersonalGrowth EquineTherapy
May 28
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
🌞🐴 WILD HORSES SUMMER CAMP IS HERE! 🐴🌞
We are delighted to launch our brand new Wild Horses Summer Camp, and if recent enquiries are anything to go by, it’s going to be popular!
Over the past year, we have been inundated with requests from young people and families across the local area asking how they can spend more time at HorseBack UK after visiting us through our many school programmes. From our work with local schools and youth development programmes, young people have repeatedly told us they want to come back for more.
Well, we listened… and now they can!
📅 Monday 27th – Friday 31st July
⏰ 10:00am – 3:30pm daily
👧🧒 For young people aged 11–15 years of all abilities
A Week of Adventure, Confidence & Connection
🐎 Horse Riding & Horsemanship
Learn new skills, build confidence, and connect with our incredible horses.
🔥 Bushcraft
Explore the outdoors, learn practical skills, and discover nature.
🏹 Archery
Develop focus, challenge yourself, and have fun hitting the target.
🤝 Team Games
Work together, make friends, and enjoy exciting group challenges.
Why Join?
✅ Build confidence and resilience
✅ Make new friends and strengthen social skills
✅ Spend time outdoors in a safe and supportive environment
✅ Learn practical skills and challenge yourself
✅ Create lasting memories and unforgettable experiences
At HorseBack UK, we believe young people thrive when given opportunities to connect, learn, and grow. Our experienced team will provide a welcoming environment where every participant can take part at their own pace and leave with new skills, increased confidence, and a sense of achievement.
🌿 Unplug. Challenge Yourself. Make Memories That Last.
📍 Based in beautiful Aboyne, Aberdeenshire
🎟️ Spaces are limited and demand is already high, so don’t leave it too late to book!
📧 : info@horseback.org.uk
📞 : 013398 80487
🌐 : www.horseback.org.uk
#HorseBackUK #WildHorsesSummerCamp #SummerAdventure #YouthDevelopment #HorseRiding #Bushcraft #Archery #TeamGames #Confidence #Resilience #OutdoorLearning #Aberdeenshire #SchoolHolidays #MakeMemories #AdventureAwaits #SummerCamp2026
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🙌 Always a pleasure to see our brother Ian Wren and the fantastic charity from Arbroath Reach Across. So good to see you all 🫡 🏴 ... See MoreSee Less
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👀 ‼️ Looking for something different this summer? 🌟 💡
After an amazing response to our recent social media posts, we’re excited to open up more spaces for our weekly Engagement Group!
📅 Every Wednesday
⏰ 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Our Engagement Group is designed to help young people aged 16–25 build confidence, overcome anxiety, and take positive steps towards employment, education, or training.
This supportive and welcoming group acts as a pathway into our 12-Week Youth Development Programme, starting in September 2026 at HorseBack UK and delivered in partnership with The King’s Trust Team Programme.
Through practical activities, teamwork, and personal development, participants gain the confidence and skills needed to move forward with their future.
🐴 What can you expect?
✅ Helping with day-to-day farm tasks
🏹 Archery & Bushcraft
🚶 Health walks and time outdoors
☕ Relaxed chats over tea, coffee, or a cold drink
💬 Learning about wellbeing and how to improve it
🤝 Building friendships and real connections
Every session is different, but the focus remains the same:
Connection • Communication • Participation
If you, or someone you know, would benefit from getting out, trying something new, and becoming part of a supportive community, we’d love to hear from you.
Find out more or register your interest:
📞 Call: 013398 80487
📧: info@horseback.org.uk
🔗 Link: horseback.org.uk/contact/
#HorseBackUK #KingsTrust #YouthDevelopment #ConfidenceBuilding #EmployabilitySkills #MentalWellbeing #PersonalDevelopment #Aberdeenshire #Aboyne #YoungPeople #LifeChangingOpportunities ... See MoreSee Less
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🤩 👀 Partnerships are so important, and we are extremely proud to be delivering and sharing our 17 years of knowledge and experience in Equine Assisted Services throughout the UK
🐎 🇬🇧 🫡"It's given me hope and confidence to take more care of myself so I can be the best version of me."
— Veteran, RAF
Recently, The Armed Forces Equine Charity successfully delivered a Veterans Active Recovery Programme in partnership with HorseBack UK at Shrivenham Equestrian Centre
Read the full story and hear directly from the veterans who took part: armedforcesequine.com/news/veterans-active-recovery-programme-delivers-positive-outcomes-at-shriv... ... See MoreSee Less
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🌟 Exciting News from HorseBack! 🌟
👀 Over the past few months, we’ve received so many enquiries asking whether members of the public can take part in our wellbeing programmes…
And we’re delighted to say that the answer is now YES! 🎉
Over the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing more information about how you can get involved, but today we’re excited to introduce our Online Equine Assisted Learning & Wellbeing Programme.
🐎 🧑🎓 “Equine assisted learning online?”
We know…a few years ago we would have thought the same! But during Covid, we adapted our programmes to continue supporting people safely and effectively from a distance. We worked closely with NHS staff during some of their most vulnerable moments, and the programme has continued to make a real impact ever since.
✨ What’s included?
• 8 group Zoom sessions
• Around 1 hour each
• Guided HorseBack learning principles
• Videos of our horses to help explain key concepts and wellbeing techniques
If you’d like to find out more about dates and costs, we’d love to hear from you.
📧 Email: info@horseback.org.uk
📞 Phone: 013398 80487
#Wellbeing #EquineAssistedLearning #MentalHealthSupport #HorseBack #OnlineWellbeing PersonalGrowth EquineTherapy ... See MoreSee Less
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👀 News This Week ‼️
We were extremely honoured to deliver another powerful Equine Assisted Services wellbeing programme for veterans in partnership with the Armed Forces Equine Charity, hosted by the incredible team at Shrivenham Equestrian Centre, based out of the MOD Defence Academy.
“This programme was coordinated by the Armed Forces Equine Charity, in partnership with HorseBack UK, providing specialist, trauma-informed support to veterans. Funded by the Veterans' Foundation through the Veterans Active Recovery Programme.”
During the course, veterans experiencing trauma, stress and the lasting effects of military service were given the opportunity to reconnect with themselves, each other and the environment through a unique programme focused on positive mental health and wellbeing.
The horses were at the heart of the experience. Horses have an incredible ability to help people regulate emotions, build trust, improve confidence and encourage calmness and presence. Working alongside them promotes emotional awareness, communication, resilience and connection without judgement. For many veterans, this creates a safe and grounding environment where healing and reflection can begin.
Participants also took part in a range of wellbeing activities designed to support both physical and mental recovery:
🏹 Archery sessions encouraged focus, patience, discipline and mindfulness. Helping to slow racing and intrusive thoughts, and remain present in the moment.
🌿 Breathwork techniques provided practical tools for managing anxiety, stress responses and emotional regulation, empowering attendees with strategies they can continue using long after the course.
🚶 Wellbeing walks offered time in nature for reflection, conversation and decompression, highlighting the proven benefits that movement and outdoor environments have on mental health.
📸 Photography sessions encouraged creativity, perspective and mindfulness, helping participants focus on positive moments, reconnect with curiosity and see the world differently.
🔧 Throughout the programme, veterans also learned practical anxiety and stress management techniques delivered by the deployable HorseBack UK team, giving attendees a personal mental health toolkit they can continue to build upon in everyday life.
This week Emma Hutchison CEO of HorseBack UK, Jason Hare Course Director, members of the HBUK Southern Team, Matt Ruddy AFEC’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Officer, and proffesionals from NHS Op Courage ran and facilitated a course that left attendees feeling hopeful, empowered, relaxed and inspired. This is a truly unique partnership within the Equine Assisted Services sector.
Most importantly, sincere thanks to everyone at Shrivenham Equestrian Centre. Your kindness, smiles, laughter, friendship and unwavering support created a welcoming environment where veterans felt safe, valued and encouraged throughout the programme. Your wonderful horses, knowledgeable team and fantastic facilities made a genuine difference to everyone involved, and your commitment to supporting your local community as well as the veteran community is something truly special.
Finally, thank you to the Armed Forces Equine Charity for continuing to champion and facilitate innovative, trauma-informed support for veterans and for helping make programmes like this possible.
Together, we are building pathways to recovery, connection and hope. 🫡 🐎 🇬🇧 ... See MoreSee Less
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