We are very pleased to see developments in the creation of a register of practitioners offering equine-assisted or facilitated interventions including; psychotherapy, education, learning, coaching and activities, to demonstrate that they operate to high quality, safe, ethical practice standards. This register is much needed, due to a total lack of regulations in the industry. The scientific evidence behind these interactions, evidences they can greatly support those experiencing mental ill health and a vast range of life challenges to improve well-being. However, there are currently no regulations in the UK to protect both the equines that work in these sessions and the service users that go to organisations for help, leaving both equines and people at risk of further harm.
The aim of the register is to bring together all people involved in the field of human equine interaction to ensure high quality service provision, governance, qualifications, policies, training and credibility. This will ensure a greater level of protection and safety for practitioners, service users, funders and the equines involved. Greater transparency of attainment of minimum standards in such areas as safeguarding, first aid, equine welfare and insurance will be the first base for registration followed by a demonstration of skills, experience and knowledge, as applicable. This is so that service users and funders will be able to make informed choices about the service being offered at all levels of practice. The Hugs Foundation is keeping up to date with developments and will be joining the register once it is up and running.
