Ellie’s Story

Finding Belonging at Eat Sleep Ride

When Jacqui and Andrew brought their daughter Ellie to Eat Sleep Ride, they were hoping for a positive experience with animals. What they found was something deeper – a place where their neurodivergent child could feel safe, accepted, and completely herself.

From the very beginning, we worked with the family to tailor the visit to Ellie’s needs, even opening on a day we would normally be closed. On arrival, she was welcomed by Katie, one of our dedicated team members, who spent the day guiding Ellie through hands-on experiences:
Grooming horses and preparing tack
Trekking and hosing the horses afterwards
Feeding chickens and collecting home-grown carrots
Riding the quad bike around the site

For Ellie, it was a dream come true. For her parents, it was a rare moment of ease and reassurance:
“We relaxed immediately and could feel what a calm, nurturing environment we were in. Katie had a wonderful approach – gently reassuring Ellie at every stage. It was an unbelievable experience from start to finish.”

They described Eat Sleep Ride as “exactly the sort of environment parents like us long for – a place of peace, acceptance and tranquillity. We wished we lived nearer; we might never leave!”
Ellie’s story reflects the heart of our mission: to create safe, inclusive, and healing spaces where children and families can connect with horses, nature, and each other.

Thank you to the Chilcott family for sharing your journey with us