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Stable Steps Programme
Building confidence, connection and calm — one hoofbeat at a time.
Stable Steps is a new free equine wellbeing programme from Friends of Gellings, designed to offer young people across Merseyside the chance to engage with horses and ponies in a safe, supportive, and therapeutic environment. Delivered from our base at Gellings Riding School, the sessions are grounded in gentle, hands-on interaction — no riding required — and are designed to support emotional wellbeing, confidence-building, and personal growth.
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Wellbeing Through Horses
Stable Steps focuses on the calming and grounding effect horses can have on the nervous system. Each session involves one-to-one or small group time with our trained ponies, where young people learn to groom, lead, and connect with the animals. These non-ridden activities are designed to ease anxiety, build emotional regulation skills, and promote mindfulness — all while strengthening confidence and self-worth.
Accessible and Inclusive
Our programme is open to children and teenagers of all backgrounds, with a particular focus on those facing disadvantage, trauma, or additional learning needs. We work closely with schools, youth services and community organisations to make Stable Steps as inclusive as possible. Sessions are adapted to suit each individual’s needs and are facilitated by trained staff and volunteers with experience in SEND, mental health, and trauma-informed care.
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Community Impact
Stable Steps isn’t just about horses — it’s about belonging. Many of the young people who attend our sessions go on to join our volunteer programme, take part in yard life, or simply enjoy being part of a supportive, positive space. By fostering responsibility, routine and trust, we help young people feel grounded and connected — to animals, to nature, and to themselves.
How can you support?
Support Our Programme – Your Donation Makes a Real Difference
Help us deliver equine wellbeing and therapeutic sessions to the children and families who need them most. Every pound you give goes directly towards meaningful, hands-on care.
Every donation helps us provide therapeutic, pony-based wellbeing sessions for children and young people facing mental health challenges, trauma, or additional needs. Here's what your support can do:
£25
Provides a half-day of care and connection with a pony
Support a child’s healing journey through hands-on interaction and calm companionship.
£50
Covers a full-day therapeutic visit for a small group
Enable a group of children or young people to access powerful animal-assisted wellbeing support.
£100
Sponsors a full week of sessions for a child in need
Give consistent support to a child through regular sessions that build trust, confidence, and emotional resilience.
£250
Sponsors 20 hours of wellbeing sessions
Your generous gift will directly fund a full programme of structured, therapeutic horse-based care.