HorseWorld hosts HETI Federation Autumn Forum
HorseWorld was proud to host the HETI Federation Autumn Forum recently, welcoming equine-assisted service (EAS) providers, practitioners, and professionals from across the region for a day of learning, collaboration, and connection.
The forum brought together colleagues from the equine-assisted sector to exchange ideas and explore new ways to support both people and horses through our work. It was a fantastic opportunity to share experiences, celebrate successes, and discuss how to continually improve outcomes for everyone involved.
Horses for Courses
HETI (The Federation of Horses in Education and Therapy International) is a global organisation that promotes the benefits of equine-assisted services and supports ethical, evidence-based practice in therapeutic, educational, and developmental settings. The Autumn Forum provided a valuable chance for UK-based members and partners to meet in person, exchange insights, and strengthen connections within the field.
The day began with a warm welcome from HETI, followed by Desi Dillingham, Chair of Trustees at HorseWorld, who introduced HorseWorld and our mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome horses while supporting people through our equine-assisted learning programme - Discovery.
Jo Coombs, CEO of HorseWorld introduced the theme of the day, “Horses for Courses – Improving Outcomes for Humans and Horses,” encouraging attendees to reflect on the importance of partnership, welfare, and balance in equine-assisted work.
Founder of Discovery and Discovery Facilitator, Sharon Howell, presented an overview of HorseWorld’s life-changing Discovery programme, describing how young people are carefully assessed and supported through equine-assisted learning sessions designed to build confidence, communication, and empathy.
HorseWorld's Equine Welfare Advisor, Meg Challinor, followed with a detailed look at horse assessment, highlighting the importance of understanding each horse’s personality, history, and wellbeing to ensure they are happy and suited to their role.
After a short break, guests moved to the yard for “Meet the Horse, Meet the Human,” where HorseWorld’s grooms shared heartfelt stories about their rescued horses and their own experiences working with them.
Discovery Facilitator, Kayleigh Sivier delivered an inspiring talk about the THRIVE approach, followed by a live training demonstration showcasing HorseWorld’s gentle, trust-based approach to horsemanship in action.
A Mare and Foal Sanctuary presentation rounded off the morning before attendees enjoyed a networking lunch.
In the afternoon, participants took part in a short tour of HorseWorld, meeting some of the special four-legged residents and learning about their stories. Back at Delmar Hall, Head of Discovery, Graham Hilliard presented the latest Impact Report and Self-Assessment, demonstrating the measurable difference that Discovery is making on vulnerable children and young people, followed by an engaging presentation from Founder and Director of Horserenity CIC, Sarah Vivian.
The forum concluded with an open Q&A session and closing remarks from Jo Coombs, who thanked everyone for their contributions and enthusiasm.
“It was wonderful to see so many colleagues from the equine-assisted sector come together for this forum,” said Jo. “The collaboration between organisations and the sharing of ideas was brilliant to see. Together, we’re helping shape a stronger, more compassionate future for both people and horses.”
The HETI Federation Autumn Forum at HorseWorld was a resounding success - a day of learning, shared knowledge, and celebrating the powerful partnership between horses and humans.
For more information about the HETI Federation, please click here.