Equine officers’ Wellbeing Day at Leeds Sanctuary

Frontline staff from RSPCA, British Horse Society, World Horse Welfare, Oak Tree Animals’ Charity and East Riding of York Council took part in a number of wellbeing activities alongside staff and some of the 25 donkeys at our sanctuary in Eccup. 

The group, who were also joined by welfare officers from The Donkey Sanctuary, spent the day connecting with colleagues, building relationships with other organisations, and of course, spending some quality time with the resident donkeys. 

Cathryn Hampshire, Leeds Centre Manager, said: “Supporting our fellow equine workers by offering them a Wellbeing Day allowed everyone to take time out from their busy work schedules and enjoy the beautiful animals that we have in our care. The session allowed time for reflection and looking at the positives that their roles allow them to naturally access. 

“The group actively participated in a range of activities and were able to have a hands-on experience, appreciating the soulful nature and peaceful sense of being that donkeys bring.” 

Wellbeing sessions like these are held for equine officers at our regional centres across the UK. The sessions help build and strengthen relationships between agencies who are often called together in the most challenging of circumstances.  

The participants all took away their own positive experiences from the day, with many saying how great it was to have the opportunity to catch up with colleagues and meet new people. They also added that they felt relaxed, refreshed and happy after being around the donkeys, who were undoubtedly the stars of the day.