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SARGA.CO — More evidence is emerging that horses are not only known as animals with lightning-fast running ability. Behind their competitive nature, horses also possess gentle traits that have proven to be healing for many people, including children with special needs.
This proof can be seen in the Changing Lives Through Horses program, an initiative by The British Horse Society (BHS). This method continues to grow as one of the alternative therapeutic approaches for children and teenagers with special needs in the United Kingdom.
The program combines horse riding and horse care activities to help participants build essential life skills, ranging from communication and self-confidence to teamwork skills.
One of the centers that runs this program is Nuneaton & North Warwickshire Equestrian Centre (NNWEC). It is here that various therapy activities are carried out regularly, with the support of certified instructors and horses that have gone through a special selection process.
This year, public attention has been drawn to the arrival of Lightning, a new therapy horse that has now become an important part of the program at NNWEC. Lightning was purchased using community funds, including the proceeds of a 24-hour fundraising walk carried out by the Warwickshire Police Cadets.
NNWEC trainer Sue Lynch explained that Lightning has natural traits that are very suitable for therapy activities.
“He is gentle and easy to approach. Children quickly feel comfortable around him,” she said, as quoted from the BBC.
Lightning is now actively involved in grooming and riding sessions provided to participants. The Changing Lives Through Horses program emphasizes direct interaction.
Participants are encouraged to take part in a variety of activities, ranging from brushing the horse’s coat, cleaning hooves, feeding, leading the horse, to simple riding exercises. This process is designed to train focus, responsibility, and emotional management skills.
At NNWEC, around 65 participants have taken part in activities under this program. Many of them have shown improvements in courage and social skills after attending several sessions.
The program’s credibility was further strengthened after receiving the Coach Award BHS 2025, an award given to programs with a significant positive impact on the development of young participants.
With the arrival of Lightning as the newest addition, NNWEC hopes to expand the reach of its services and provide more diverse therapeutic experiences for participants. In the eyes of the trainers, Lightning is not just a new horse, but part of a major effort to help children find confidence and comfort through a different approach.
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