Our partnership is rooted in a simple belief: horses and movement can transform lives. By combining Sport in Mind’s mental health expertise with British Equestrian’s reach, knowledge, and passion for equestrian sport, we are creating more supportive, welcoming, and enjoyable opportunities for people experiencing mental health problems to engage with horses.

Why Horses Matter for Mental Health

Equestrian environments offer something uniquely powerful for people experiencing mental health challenges:

• A calming, grounding connection with animals
• A sense of routine, responsibility, and purpose
• Gentle physical activity that builds confidence
• A supportive community where people feel understood
• Space to breathe, reset, and feel safe

For many participants, these sessions become the highlight of their week, a place where they can be themselves, make friends, and rediscover joy.

One parent told us:

“For six weeks my child wouldn’t speak to anyone or leave the house. This horseriding session is the first time she has smiled and laughed with her new friends. It’s the highlight of her week.”

Together, Sport in Mind and British Equestrian are taking action through a programme of work designed to open the equestrian world to more people who need it most.

1. Supportive, welcoming opportunities to engage with horses

We are creating more accessible, enjoyable equestrian sessions for adults and young people experiencing mental health problems, ensuring every session feels safe, inclusive, and confidence‑building.

2. Weekly equestrian sessions across the South East

These sessions offer structured riding, stable‑based activities, and opportunities to build friendships and routine.

3. A new BEF Mental Health Factsheet and e‑Learning Package

To equip the equestrian workforce, we have co‑develop practical, evidence‑based resources that help coaches, centres, and volunteers understand mental health, support participants, and create emotionally safe environments. (ADD LINK)

4. A Training and Volunteering Pilot Project

Using the Volunteero (LINK) app, Sport in Mind volunteers will be placed into selected equestrian centres to support delivery, enhance participant experience, and strengthen community connections.

The Difference We’re Already Seeing

Coaches tell us that participants are forming friendships, building confidence, and finding a sense of belonging:

“Some of the participants are really good friends despite only knowing each other through the sessions. They relate to each other and feel less alone with their feelings.”

Others are discovering new purpose through volunteering:

“One participant loves the horses so much they now volunteer. Another has just asked to start too. It’s lovely to see how keen they are to care for the ponies as well as ride.”

And across every session, the therapeutic power of horses shines through:

“Everyone has made great progress with their riding and gained so much confidence. Being around horses is very therapeutic, it just makes you feel better.”

Sport in Mind and British Equestrian are proud to take action together. Because when we open the stable door, we open the door to better mental health.

Back to gallery