New business offers donkey-assisted therapy to people in Shropshire and Staffordshire
A new business which is offering donkey-assisted therapy is now up and running.
Jo Wightman, of Wheaton Aston, has launched Donkey EARS - Donkey Education and Relaxation.
A not-for-profit community interest company, Jo and her five donkeys will be providing wellbeing sessions to a range of people, including care home residents and clients with special educational needs, as well as corporate and fun events such as team building days and picnics in Staffordshire, Shropshire and the West Midlands.
Jo explained that she had the idea for the venture when she was offered similar therapy by Macmillan following an illness.
“When I had chemotherapy for cancer a few years ago it was a donkey that gave me the energy to get out of bed each day,” said Jo, who has a psychology degree and is a special educational needs teacher and advisor with over 30 years’ experience working with a wide range of people and families.
“During my time volunteering for Macmillan supporting those with cancer and for Riding for the Disabled I encountered many others who benefited in the same way from the therapeutic presence of gentle equines so the idea for Donkey EARS was born.
“Donkeys are mild and calm and that encourages trust and confidence, making them ideal partners for people seeking emotional healing, personal growth.
“We also are registered to work with people with special education needs and deliver programmes on animal care, communication, co-operation, teamwork and emotional support.”
Jo’s new enterprise benefitted from guidance and advice from Bridgnorth-based business consultants Good2Great.
She completed a free business start-up workshop run by Good2Great which are being held throughout this year and are managed by South Staffordshire District Council and funded by UK government.
Jo added: "The Good2Great course was just what I needed to get the ideas in my head into practical steps to make the business a reality. It gave me a clear map of what I needed to do and provided advice and support every step of the way.”
The next events will be held on December 10 and 11 in Wombourne and anyone interested in joining the courses can apply via Tamsin Preece on 01746 330730, start@good-2-great.co.uk or https://bit.ly/49fBen6
Match-funded grants of up to £1,000 are available for eligible businesses.
