15 years on, Salvation Army’s equine-assisted intervention transforming young lives in Forest of Dean

This June, the Forest of Dean Salvation Army’s Growth and Learning Equine Assisted Ministry (GLEAM) marks 15 years of helping vulnerable children and teens find hope—one hoofbeat at a time. What began as a simple act of kindness—a struggling teen learning to calm her anger seeing a horse get disturbed and unsettled by mirroring her emotions —has grown into a lifeline for families across the region. 

Vivienne Prescott, leader of The Salvation Army in Forest of Dean says the programme has been an amazing experience for everyone involved and they are grateful to be part of many children’s healing journeys.   

Vivienne said, “You know the power of this work when you bump into a young adult in the street and the first thing they say to you is ‘GLEAM saved my life.’ For some children, building a relationship with a being that allows you to be congruent and does not judge or have any expectations about you other than enjoying the joy of your presence, can be absolutely life changing.” 

“The ponies help them see their true value strength and ability and whereas they may have refused to receive this message from a parent or teacher, they will receive it from the pony. It is very simple, but deeply profound.” 

With a herd of four ponies, four sheep, two goats, dogs and chickens, the programme helps participants—especially vulnerable teens and children—build confidence, process trauma, and develop emotional resilience. 

Led by Vivienne, a qualified equine-assisted practitioner, the initiative is transforming lives through working with horses, offering a unique blend of animal-assisted learning and nature-based activities. 

Vivienne said, “In Equine Assisted Intervention, horses mirror internal energy. Children see firsthand how their behaviour affects another being—and learn to regulate themselves in a safe, peaceful space. These ponies aren’t just rescues—they’re rescuers."  

It all started in 2010 when a desperate mother called Vivienne Prescott, leader of The Salvation Army in Forest of Dean, about her angry, struggling teenage daughter, neither expected the breakthrough would come from an unlikely source—a horse.  

“She was throwing things, full of rage, and her mum didn’t know how to help,” recalls Vivienne. 

 “I only had time to see her while mucking out my horses, so I invited her along. When my horse reacted to her anger by cowering, it was a turning point. She learned to calm herself—and the horse responded. That moment showed me the power of this connection.”  

Operating from a 3-acre plot, the project also includes bushcraft, art therapy, and certificated horse-care courses, providing skills and solace.  

The leader of the herd is 30-year-old Custard, a pony that was rescued by Vivienne 20 years ago. Custard’s story of rejection, resilience and rebirth is an inspiration to many who have come to The Salvation Army battling anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, family problems, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, autism, and bereavement, among other issues. 

 The project caters to a wide range of needs:  

- Teenagers and young adults processing trauma or anxiety.  

- Primary school children, supported by colleague and play therapist Judith.  

- Students at risk of exclusion and college students with SEN who can gain a UKRS-certified Basic Horse Care qualification to bolster their portfolios.  

Vivienne said, “The demand is overwhelming. It works – that’s why it’s oversubscribed. We are offering sessions just two days a week. We keep costs low because healing shouldn’t be a luxury. Whether it’s teens at risk of exclusion or young adults struggling with anxiety, this safe, peaceful space helps them thrive.”  

The Salvation Army is committed to keeping these transformative sessions open to every child, but running the programme comes with significant costs. Financial support is warmly welcomed and will help continue this life-changing work. 

The Salvation Army’s approach is holistic. Vivienne’s husband, Richard, an artist, often helps participants process sessions through creative journaling. Richard is also the Salvation Army’s Outreach Mission Partner in the Youth and Childrens Unit. 

Meanwhile, plans are underway to convert part of plot into an outdoor classroom for post-Covid learners struggling in traditional settings.  

Vivienne said, “Schools are already approaching us. We want to formalise a package for students who struggle to access mainstream education and would benefit from a more relaxed learning environment in nature” 

Those who want to know more about the programme,  to book an appointment, or donate can contact via email: vivienne.prescott@salvationarmy.org.uk.   

From food handouts to domestic violence support, the Salvation Army’s work in the Forest of Dean is vast—but GLEAM Equine Assisted Learning stands out as a shining example of innovative community care. To learn more about the work of the Salvation Army in Forest of Dean visit their website: Forest of Dean | The Salvation Army.