Amy’s Trust is a new charity offering Equine Facilitated Learning (EFL) experiences to children and young people facing mental and emotional health challenges.
Surrounded by beautiful countryside, the facility provides a peaceful and nurturing setting where young people can experience connection during difficult times. With purpose-built spaces for both horse and human, Amy’s Trust offers a haven where young people can slow down, feel safe and begin to find their way forward.
At a time when increasing numbers of children and young people are experiencing anxiety, low confidence, emotional distress and challenges with everyday life, Amy’s Trust provides an alternative form of support. Being outdoors in nature and alongside horses can help regulate the nervous system, reduce stress and create opportunities for meaningful growth.
Through mindfully guided sessions, individuals engage with the herd in ways that promote self-awareness, confidence and emotional regulation, helping to develop a growing sense of well-being over time. Sessions take place in a supportive, compassionate and non-judgmental environment where individuals are met at their own pace.
Sessions may include observing horse behaviour, leading horses through simple activities, exploring communication and boundaries, building trust, or spending quiet reflective time in with the horses’ presence. No riding experience is required; focus is not on riding skills but on connection, awareness and personal development.
EFL works in partnership with the natural sensitivity and authenticity of horses to allow powerful learning experiences to unfold. Horses are highly responsive animals and experts at offering immediate, honest feedback. They respond to body language, emotion and intention rather than words alone. Exploring this feedback with the support of an EFL practitioner allows individuals to recognise patterns, develop new skills and create meaningful change in their lives.
As a charity, Amy’s Trust is passionate about making this kind of support accessible to families and young people who may benefit from it. With the help of fundraising, donations and community support, the Trust hopes to continue expanding its reach and offering life-changing experiences to more young people in the future.
Amy’s Trust was established in memory of Amy Duffield, whose deep connection with horses continues to inspire its work. The Trust was originally set up by Amy’s mother, Sharon Duffield, who dedicated herself to fundraising in memory of her daughter. It has since evolved into Amy’s Trust CIO, which officially opened its gates last August with a successful fundraising event at the site in Redmile.
Amy’s kindness, spirit and love of horses remain at the heart of the charity’s mission, creating a lasting legacy of healing, hope and opportunity for future generations.
If you would like to learn more about the services offered, you can contact them at info@amystrust.org or visit their website at www.amystrust.org.