A pre-test post-test study of an equine assisted intervention for young people with mental health and behavioural issues.

Abstract

This paper presents findings from an evaluation of an equine assisted education intervention, currently referred over 250 young people with mental health and behavioural problems yearly. Referrals are made when other services such as Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) are not effective or not able to engage the young person. This study used a pre-test post-test design and showed significant positive changes for 361 participants across eight dimensions assertiveness, engagement with learning, calmness, planning, taking responsibility, empathy, communication, and focus. This study used a non-randomised convenience sample over five years. The tool used is a modified mental health recovery star completed by those who refer to the intervention (social workers, and teachers) before and 2 months after completion.