Type of service: Interventions and therapies, Play and leisure

Service URL: http://www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/donkey-assisted-therapy

At The Donkey Sanctuary Assisted Therapy Centre Belfast we provide donkey-riding therapy to children with additional needs and disabilities at purpose built Centres located around the country. The children who attend the Centres have a wide range of disabilities; some have learning difficulties, others are physically disadvantaged or have behavioural problems, brain damage or sensory impairment. We are helped by a team of around 15 to 20 donkeys at each of our Centres. Their calm and gentle natures make them ideal for this kind of work and many friendships are forged between our donkeys and the children. We aim to bring enjoyment and pleasure into their lives and our work helps with their co-ordination and overall development, as well as giving them the satisfaction that comes with the achievement of learning riding skills. Each of our Centres has play areas where the children wait for their rides and an indoor riding arena.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Child , Volunteer

Specialisms: Generic

Other specialisms: Learning disability