ANIMAL ASSISTED INTERVENTION
Fur & Fields Farm Qualifications:
BSc Hons Degree in Social Work and Applied Social Sciences
Designated Lead in Safeguarding
First Aid
Positive Behaviour Management
Health and Safety
EAQ Facilitator Training
DBS checked
Our Animal-Assisted Intervention (AAI) services are designed to provide therapeutic benefits through gentle, structured interactions with our friendly animals. These sessions aim to support emotional well-being, reduce stress, and promote positive social and behavioral changes in a calm, natural setting.
Ideal for individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, loneliness, or emotional stress, our AAI sessions harness the unique, calming presence of animals to help people connect, heal, and grow. Whether it’s the soft touch of a donkey’s muzzle or the curious gaze of an alpaca, each interaction is tailored to offer comfort, support, and a renewed sense of peace.
We appreciate the complexities of the challenges faced by our AAI visitors and always work to create a bespoke package based on individual requirements.
AAI is available for learners aged 6 years and above.
Who Would Benefit from Animal-Assisted Intervention?
Animal-assisted intervention can support individuals across a wide range of needs, including:
Children and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) – to enhance communication, social interaction, and sensory regulation.
Individuals with mental health challenges – such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or stress-related conditions.
Children with developmental delays – to improve motor skills, emotional expression, and confidence.
People recovering from trauma – to foster emotional healing and a sense of safety.
Socially isolated individuals – to provide comfort, companionship, and a bridge to social connection.
People undergoing rehabilitation – from illness or addiction, to enhance motivation and overall well-being.
Those facing life transitions or grief – to support emotional processing and provide comfort during challenging times.
Children under the care of local authorities, offering them a safe space to build trust and confidence.
Children from domestic abuse backgrounds, supporting emotional healing and resilience.
Young carers, providing a break from their responsibilities and a chance to focus on their well-being.
Each program can be customised to meet specific goals, ensuring the intervention aligns with individual needs.
What to expect
At our farm, learners are invited to enjoy a hands-on experience with a wide variety of animals, including horses, goats, sheep, alpacas, chickens, rabbits, and donkeys. All horse-related activities are ground-based, making it ideal for those with no prior experience with equines or farm animals. While we don’t offer riding lessons, we provide opportunities to engage in all aspects of farm life, from animal care and handling to exercise routines, woodland exploration, farm maintenance, and creative projects inspired by the animals and the natural environment.
Our sessions are held outdoors in all weather conditions, encouraging a deeper connection to nature. Learners should come prepared with suitable clothing for the season—this might include waterproofs, a warm coat, gloves, or a sunhat with sunscreen. Sturdy footwear such as wellies or trainers is essential. As sessions are physically engaging, bringing a water bottle is recommended. During colder months, we offer hot drinks like tea, coffee, and hot chocolate to help keep warm.
The first sessions are designed to help learners build connections with the animals, settle into the routine, and feel at ease in the farm environment. As they become more confident, we introduce tailored activities, including creative projects such as sketching, painting, or crafting with natural materials.
A unique aspect of our sessions is the inclusion of mindfulness practices involving animals. These guided moments help learners connect deeply with the animals, practicing calmness, focus, and presence. Whether it’s spending quiet time grooming a horse, walking with a donkey, or simply observing the soothing rhythm of nature, these sessions promote relaxation, emotional well-being, and a sense of inner peace.
This holistic approach nurtures the mind and body, blending animal interaction, creativity, and mindfulness to foster confidence, personal growth, and a greater appreciation for the natural world. We adapt every session to meet the individual needs and interests of our learners, ensuring a safe, enriching, and rewarding experience for everyone.
Costs & Funding
We offer personalized one-to-one sessions tailored to meet individual needs. Each term runs for 6 weeks, with a minimum booking requirement of 1 term (6 sessions).
Sessions are priced at £50 per hour.
We welcome learners who are funded through their education provider, social care, or those who are self-funded.
For initial inquiries about our services, current availability, or to join our waiting list, please get in touch with us today.
“My time at Fur and Fields was truly transformative. The gentle presence of the animals, especially the donkeys, brought me a sense of calm I hadn't felt in ages. Fran & Ellie were so friendly and supportive, making the experience feel safe and comforting. I left feeling lighter, more connected, and grateful for such a beautiful experience.”
