Our Journey

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Eat Sleep Ride's journey began in 2017 with a single pony and a rented barn, fuelled by a mission to make equine experiences accessible to children and families from low-income backgrounds. However, as we evolved, our vision expanded far beyond initial expectations. We became a catalyst for community cohesion, offering a sanctuary where individuals could integrate socially, ignite their passion for learning, develop empathy, and embrace the discipline of daily commitment in all weather conditions, all while being part of a supportive team.

Our aspirations and achievements led us to an exciting milestone in 2022 when we embarked on a transformative project at "Pastures New." We took on the challenge of rejuvenating a reclaimed waste site, removing 3.5 arctic lorries worth of rubbish and 900 bags of ragwort. Our efforts were focused on harmoniously integrating with the natural environment, which involved constructing a road, installing solar power, erecting buildings, and establishing recycling facilities, alongside an arena. This was not just about creating a new space but about crafting an ecosystem where nature thrives and we learn to coexist respectfully.

Our journey, marked by continuous growth and development, has been recognised through numerous accolades. We've been honoured with nominations for social entrepreneurship awards and our fundraising efforts have been spotlighted in prestigious platforms like the Scottish Edge. These acknowledgments reflect not just our commitment to our cause but also the impact of our work on the community and the environment.

As we look back on our journey, it's clear that Eat Sleep Ride has evolved from a simple idea into a beacon of hope, resilience, and positive change. Our story is far from over; it's a testament to what can be achieved with passion, dedication, and a community united by a common goal.


Our values

Our values underpin the work of Eat Sleep Ride and they help us to ensure we provide the best possible outcome for all who engage with us:

Respect
Respect

we accept people for who they are, regardless of difference.

Education
Education

we see education as key to improving society and building better futures for us all.

Inspire
Inspire

inspiration motivates us all and awakens us to new opportunities.

Nurture
Nurture

we help, encourage and care for those we engage with.

Safety
Safety

self-care and care for others is paramount to us.

At Eat Sleep Ride, we're driven by the powerful bond between humans and horses. These majestic animals are more than athletes; they're emotional mirrors, offering unparalleled companionship and insights. This deep connection fuels our mission to reach more people, enriching lives through human-equine interaction.

Shockingly, 80% of our beneficiaries have endured tough childhoods, pushing us to support not just individuals but whole families. We're building a care continuum that fosters healing and growth beyond our stables.

We've redefined therapy, recognizing the healing embrace of horse companionship beyond traditional clinical approaches. Our spaces offer a unique comfort, a place where hearts open in the company of our understanding equine friends.

Our journey highlights the power of prevention and empathy. By nurturing empathetic bonds between people and horses, we tackle deep-seated issues, fostering healing, empowerment, and community transformation.


We are passionate about enabling positive behaviour changes and raising aspirations. Our 5 strategic outcomes for achieving social and environmental change

1. People have improved physical & mental health and wellbeing with improved connection to their community.

2. People have developed strong coping strategies equipping them to live healthier, happier fulfilled lives with stronger relationships.

3. People have access to our life-enhancing therapeutic equine and countryside-based activities

4. Young people have improved employability skills and increased employment opportunities.

5. To reduce our impact on the environment by working towards achieving a net zero facility and sharing our learning

To support our children and young people, we have developed a theory of change model which will support us in delivering against these outcomes and ensure that we continue to create the positive social impact that is so important to us.

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