A fantastic military family course last week at Horseback UK โ๏ธ
#horseback #military #family#scotland #horses
Aug 26
๐ Exciting News from HorseBack! ๐
๐ Over the past few months, weโve received so many enquiries asking whether members of the public can take part in our wellbeing programmesโฆ
And weโre delighted to say that the answer is now YES! ๐
Over the coming weeks, weโll be sharing more information about how you can get involved, but today weโre excited to introduce our Online Equine Assisted Learning & Wellbeing Programme.
๐ ๐งโ๐ โEquine assisted learning online?โ
We knowโฆa 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.
โจ Whatโs included?
โข 8 group Zoom sessions
โข Around 1 hour each
โข Guided HorseBack learning principles
โข Videos of our horses to help explain key concepts and wellbeing techniques
If youโd like to find out more about dates and costs, weโd love to hear from you.
๐ง Email: info@horseback.org.uk
๐ Phone: 013398 80487
#Wellbeing #EquineAssistedLearning #MentalHealthSupport #HorseBack #OnlineWellbeing PersonalGrowth EquineTherapy
May 28
Can it stop ๐คฌraining please? So many jobs to do. โ๏ธ ๐ ๐ ๐ฌ๐ง
Feb 11
Some wounds canโt be seen โ but they can be healed. ๐โจ
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 ๐ 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.
๐ฅ ๐
#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. (๐ 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 โ not through words, but through connection. Between human and horse. Between past and possibility.
Inside the film:
โข The Kingโs Trust Youth Development Programme โ empowering young people with personal growth, employability skills, and recognised qualifications
โข Veterans Residential Course โ supporting former service personnel living with PTSD as they reconnect, rediscover purpose, and rebuild life after service
Funded by the Sir Peter OโSullevan Charitable Trust, the documentary draws a powerful parallel between veterans redefining life beyond the uniform and racehorses finding purpose beyond the track โ a shared journey of rehabilitation, dignity, and hope.
This is not just a film about horses.
Itโs 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
๐ 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 teamโฆ
๐ ๐ฌ๐ง ๐ด๓ ง๓ ข๓ ณ๓ ฃ๓ ด๓ ฟ
Aug 20
Happy New Year from HorseBack UK!๐
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 workshopโs 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, weโve 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, letโs continue to champion the transformative power of equine-assisted services and make a lasting impact.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Hereโs to a bright New Year filled with hope, healing, and the magic of horses! ๐
#HappyNewYear #HorseBackUK #EquineAssistedServices #HealingWithHorses #CommunityImpact #2025Vision
Jan 1
โผ๏ธ Please Help And Please Share
We need all your help urgently!
๐ Support HorseBack UK: Vote for Mental Health and Wellbeing! ๐
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:
โผ๏ธ AB34 5LD โผ๏ธ 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. ๐๐งโโ๏ธ
#HorseBackUK #MentalHealthMatters #VoteForWellbeing #Aberdeenshire #Community Aboyne Local
Dec 4
๐จ๏ธโ๏ธ ๐ฅถ Brrr! Itโs a chilly -5ยฐC today at HorseBack UK, but that hasnโt stopped the incredible Banchory Academy Schools Development Group from shining bright! ๐
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.
๐ดโค๏ธ๐ Please like and share to spread the love!
#HorseBackUK #BanchoryAcademy #EquineLearning #teamwork
Dec 3
News Flash! โ ๏ธ
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
Weโre delighted to announce a partnership with @thebeastukofficial (formerly โUK 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! Weโre incredibly proud to be partnered with them for their tour next year.
The Beast UK are pledging ยฃ1 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 theyโre 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
Weโre 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. ๐
Stay tuned as we share more behind-the-scenes insights and reflections that we didnโt 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 alliesโFrench, Brits, and Americansโwhose 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.
Itโs 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 โdrinky pooโ 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. Weโre 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. ๐๏ธ 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. โThereโs no better place to be with the last remaining members of the Greatest Generation that fought for the freedom of the world,โ 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 familyโs presence enriches this commemoration. Itโs a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of those who serve and the families who stand by them. ๐โจ
Weโre 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. ๐๐
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 weโre dedicated to helping them transition smoothly.
Itโs 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, weโre 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. ๐๐๏ธ 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 inโa future where liberty prevails over oppression. Their heroism not only liberated Europe but also shaped the peaceful world we cherish today.
Letโs honor and remember every valiant heart. Their legacy of bravery continues to inspire generations. We will never forget. ๐๏ธ #DDay80 #NeverForget #Freedom #DDAY80 #HBUKDDAY80
Jun 6
๐๐ FREE REIN IS OFF AND RUNNING! ๐๐
The response to Jock Hutchisonโs Free Rein has been fantastic, and it sounds like copies are literally flying out! ๐
Weโve already had loads of messages from readers whoโve received their books, with some brilliant photos coming in of you proudly showing off your copy! ๐ธ๐
Others have told us their copy is on its way, while plenty more are planning to head out this weekend to grab theirs. ๐โโ๏ธ๐จ๐
And now we want to see YOU! ๐
Have you got your copy of Free Rein?
๐ธ Take a photo with your book
๐ด Share it with us
๐ฒ Tag HorseBack UK
Letโs see how far Free Rein is travelling!
Keep those photos coming, we LOVE seeing them! โค๏ธ
#FreeRein #JockHutchison #HorseBackUK #BookLaunch #ReadersOfInstagram #BookLovers #ScottishStories #Horses #GetYourCopy #FreeReinBook ... See MoreSee Less
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๐ ๐ ๐ฌ๐ง ๐ด๓ ง๓ ข๓ ณ๓ ฃ๓ ด๓ ฟ The day has finally arrived!
Today marks the official launch of Free Rein, the incredible book by Jock Hutchison, co-founder of HorseBack UK.
From horses and adventure to the experiences, challenges and people that have shaped his remarkable journey and attended the charity, Free Rein is a story that deserves to be shared.
And thereโs moreโฆ ๐ง
The audiobook is narrated by the famous and hugely talented Scottish actor David Rintoul, bringing Jockโs story to life in an entirely different way.
๐ Available now in all good bookshops and on Amazon
๐ง Also available as an audiobook
So, what are you waiting for?
Get your copy of Free Rein today and join Jock on the ride of a lifetime! ๐ด๐ฟ
#FreeRein #JockHutchison #HorseBackUK #BookLaunch #ScottishStories #Audiobook #DavidRintoul #Horses #Adventure #Inspiration #GetYourCopy ... See MoreSee Less
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โ๐ด ROYAL NAVY FAMILIES WEEK AT HORSEBACK UK ๐ดโ
What a brilliant week we had last week welcoming Royal Navy families to HorseBack UK for five days packed with fun, adventure, learning and, most importantly, time together as families.
Throughout the week, everyone got stuck into a huge range of activities. There was horsemanship and horse riding, learning how to communicate with and build confidence around our horses, alongside archery, bushcraft and shelter building, science experiments and rockets with the wonderfully eccentric Prof. Giblets, rock painting, farm chores and a very competitive sports afternoon!
We also headed away from the centre for trips to Ballater and Burn OโVat, giving families the chance to explore some of the fantastic countryside and communities surrounding HorseBack UK.
There was plenty of laughter, a few challenges, new skills learned and some fantastic teamwork along the way. From riding a horse and hitting an archery target to launching rockets, building shelters, kicking footballs and bouncing around on space hoppers, there was rarely a quiet moment!
But behind all the activities was something much more important.
Military family life brings its own unique challenges. Weeks like this provide an opportunity for families to spend quality time together, meet others who understand military life, try something new and simply enjoy being a family.
We finished the week with a visit to favourite horses and animals, presentations and awards celebrating everything the children and families had achieved.
A huge BZ (Bravo Zulu) to all our Royal Navy families who joined us. You threw yourselves into everything with enthusiasm, humour and a fantastic sense of adventure.
And, of course, a massive thank you to the HorseBack UK team and everyone who helped make the week possible.
โ Royal Navy Families + HorseBack UK = one very special week. ๐ด
Fun โข Friendship โข Adventure โข Family Time โข Memories
#HorseBackUK #RoyalNavy #RoyalNavyFamilies #MilitaryFamilies #ArmedForcesCommunity #FamilyTime #Horsemanship #EquineAssistedServices #Wellbeing #Adventure #Teamwork #Resilience ... See MoreSee Less
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๐ 10 days to go, pre order your copy here
amzn.eu/d/09kuOdAv ... See MoreSee Less
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Yesterday HorseBack UK was in The Telegraph (online). Today we have gone old school and have made it into the actual Daily Telegraph newspaper .
We are so excited about the response to Jockโs upcoming book Free Rein (available on Amazon) and thank everyone for their kind and supportive comments. ... See MoreSee Less
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๐ ๐ฐ Horseback UK are in the Telegraph (Online) todayโฆ
... See MoreSee Less
The British cowboy using tough love to help despondent teenagers
www.telegraph.co.uk
Jock Hutchison is building on his work with fellow veterans to get youngsters off their phones, onto horses โ and back into the real world1 CommentsComment on Facebook
๐ ๐ ๐ฌ๐ง ๐ด๓ ง๓ ข๓ ณ๓ ฃ๓ ด๓ ฟ FREE REIN โ THE POWERFUL AND HEART-WARMING STORY OF HOW HORSES AND HUMANS CAN FIND HAPPINESS
We are incredibly excited to share some very special news from HorseBack UK.
Our co-founder Jock Hutchison has written a book.
FREE REIN, published by Bloomsbury, will be released on 27th August 2026 and is available to pre-order now from Bloomsbury, Amazon and all good bookshops.
It will be available in hard copy and as an audiobook, narrated by the extremely talented Scottish actor David Rintoul, known for his roles in Dr Finlayโs Casebook, Hornblower, The Crown and Game of Thrones.
๐ฅ๏ธ In this short interview, our Course Director Jason Hare catches up with Jock to talk about the book, the story behind it and the extraordinary journey that led to HorseBack UK.
โThe powerful and heart-warming story of how horses and humans can find happiness.โ
On a remote Scottish farm, something remarkable happens.
People who have been wounded by war, young people struggling to find their place in the world, and those searching for happiness, confidence or wellbeing begin to feel whole again.
At the heart of it all is a man in a cowboy hat and a herd of remarkable horses.
Jockโs own relationship with horses began as a child, when his first pony provided an escape from a difficult home life. His journey would later take him from Royal Marines officer to helicopter pilot and successful businessman, before his life took a very different turn.
Following his own struggles, failures and mental health challenges, the horses called him back.
In 2009, Jock co-founded HorseBack UK, initially supporting veterans recovering from physical and psychological injuries. What began with the Armed Forces community has grown into something much bigger, helping people from many different backgrounds find confidence, connection and a way forward.
In Free Rein, Jock takes readers onto the farm and follows a group of struggling teenagers as they learn to work with horses โ and, in doing so, learn more about themselves and each other.
Phones are put away. Anxieties begin to quieten. Trust is built. Mistakes are made. Lessons are learned.
And the horses are there every step of the way. ๐ โค๏ธ
For anyone who has ever wondered why we do what we do at HorseBack UK, where it all began, or just what it is about horses that can have such a profound effect on people โ this is a book for you.
๐ FREE REIN by Jock Hutchison
๐ Published 27th August 2026
๐ง Audiobook narrated by David Rintoul
๐ Available to pre-order now from Bloomsbury, Amazon and all good bookshops.
amzn.eu/d/09kuOdAv
Please share and help us spread the word.
#FreeRein #JockHutchison #HorseBackUK #Bloomsbury #EquineAssistedServices #Horses #MentalHealth #Wellbeing #Veterans #YoungPeople #Resilience #ThePowerOfHorses ... See MoreSee Less
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๐๐ด THIS SUMMERโฆ LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN! ๐ฟ๐ฅ
Looking for something your child will actually remember this summer? Give them five action packed days of adventure, confidence building, and outdoor fun at HorseBack UKโs Wild Horses Summer Camp!
๐ Ride horses
๐น Hit the bullseye with archery
๐ฅ Learn bushcraft skills
๐ฒ Explore the outdoors
๐ค Make amazing new friends
๐ Grow in confidence every single day
Whether theyโre a complete beginner or already love the outdoors, every young person is welcomed into a fun, friendly, and supportive environment where they can challenge themselves, laugh, learn, and create memories that will last long after summer ends.
๐ 10thโ14th August
๐ 10:00am โ 3:30pm
๐ง๐ง Ages 11โ15 | All abilities welcome
โก Spaces are filling fast so donโt let them miss out on the adventure of the summer!
๐ Book now at www.horseback.org.uk
๐ง info@horseback.org.uk or Messenger DM
๐ Call 01339 880487
Tag a parent who needs to see this! ๐
#HorseBackUK #WildHorsesSummerCamp #SummerAdventure #HorseRiding #Bushcraft #Archery #OutdoorFun #SchoolHolidays #Confidence #Friendship #AdventureStartsHere #MemoriesMade #GetOutside #Summer2026 ... See MoreSee Less
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