In the heart of the Worcestershire countryside, just outside Bromsgrove, lies a place where healing flows both ways. The Healing Horse Sanctuary is home to twelve rescued horses and ponies, four cats, and a small flock of spirited chickens. Here, animals who have faced abandonment, neglect, or ill health find not only safety but a second chance at life. And in return, they give something just as precious — peace, comfort, and connection to the people who visit.
For Gemma, one of the sanctuary’s dedicated volunteers, the journey began with her own need for healing. “I’ve always loved horses,” she says, “but when I left the NHS I was burnt out and struggling with anxiety. Spending time outside with the herd — just being with them, tuning into how they were feeling — was incredibly calming. It gave me something I didn’t even know I needed.”
Now, she devotes four days a week to the sanctuary, helping to care for animals who, like her, needed a new beginning.
A Day in the Life of the Sanctuary
There’s no such thing as a truly “typical” day at The Healing Horse Sanctuary, but it always starts with a warm greeting. “We say hello to each of the horses, check they’re okay, and give them their feed,” Gemma explains. Many of the residents are older and live with chronic conditions like arthritis or skin complaints, so their care needs are tailored and often complex.
But this is more than feeding and mucking out. The horses receive holistic therapies too, including reiki and energy healing sessions designed to tune into their emotional as well as physical wellbeing. “A lot of them have been abandoned or let down in the past,” Gemma says. “It’s about letting them know they are safe and valued.”
Among the herd are some unforgettable personalities with personal stories. Sunny, a miniature Shetland pony with dwarfism, charms every visitor he meets. Thumper, once bought as a child’s pony but deemed “unrideable,” is now free to live life at her own pace, while Bailey, a striking white horse bred for showjumping, was marked for destruction because his back legs don’t align with his front. Instead, he has found sanctuary and is thriving in his new home.
“Every horse here has a story,” Gemma reflects. “People who visit often find they connect with a particular one — it’s like choosing a favourite, but really, they all give something different.”
Healing for People Too
The sanctuary isn’t just about rescuing animals; it’s about creating a space where humans and horses heal together. Visitors come from all across the region — and sometimes from further afield — for therapy sessions, calming experiences, or simply to walk among the herd.
“The horses seem to know what people need and they love their company too!”
Experiences start from as little as £10, with options up to £55 for more immersive therapy sessions. Some visitors book a simple meet-and-greet, while others spend a few hours with the herd.
The Challenge of Keeping the Gates Open
Despite the beauty and tranquillity of The Healing Horse Sanctuary, running it is no small task. Rent for the land, feed, vet bills, and upkeep all add up — and as a self-funded charity, the sanctuary relies entirely on donations, grants, and community support.
“A steady monthly income would make all the difference,” Gemma admits. “We would love more people who can commit to sponsoring a horse, setting up a direct debit, or even sponsoring one of the chickens. It all helps us survive month to month.”
Fundraising comes in many forms. The charity runs a shop in Bromsgrove, selling pre-loved clothes, furniture, and gifts, as well as a small café and holistic therapy space. Every penny raised goes back into caring for the animals. But with costs rising, more help is urgently needed.
Community at the Heart
One of the sanctuary’s greatest strengths is its connection to the community. Volunteers give their time to help with daily care, while visitors often return again and again. Many develop a special bond with one particular horse, finding comfort in the companionship.
The team is also passionate about raising awareness and involving more people. From school visits to family days out, they want everyone to experience the sense of calm that the sanctuary offers.
How You Can Help
There are so many ways to support The Healing Horse Sanctuary. Sponsorship schemes allow individuals to “adopt” a horse or even a chicken or cat, helping to cover their care. Legacy giving ensures that the sanctuary can plan for the future. Donations — whether regular or one-off — keep the gates open and the animals fed.
Visiting the Bromsgrove shop or booking an experience at the sanctuary are also simple, practical ways to show support. Even spreading the word makes a difference.
“We know times are tough for everyone right now,” Gemma says, “but even small gestures add up. A few pounds a month, a visit to the shop, or just telling a friend about us — it all helps us keep going.”
Healing That Lasts
The Healing Horse Sanctuary has been rescuing animals and offering a safe haven since 2008. Over the years, countless horses have found new hope, and countless people have discovered the quiet magic of being with them.
As Gemma puts it: “The horses give us their trust, their calm, and their presence. In return, all they ask is to be cared for. That’s what we’re here for — but we can’t do it without the community.”
To donate, sponsor, or find out more, visit www.thehealinghorsesanctuary.com.