EAOT-UK is a self-governing professional network of Occupational Therapists dedicated to advancing education, practice, and mentorship within the field of equine-assisted occupational therapy.
With additional specialist training, Occupational Therapists can work in partnership with equines (horses) in the equine environment as a therapeutic and learning medium. Research demonstrates that Equine Assisted Therapy (EAT) can be a meaningful, enjoyable and effective therapeutic approach that improves both physical and mental health.
Equines can contribute to therapy and learning in a wide range of ways. Within this setting Occupational Therapists carry out assessments and deliver interventions (therapy sessions) that are tailored to each person’s goals.
The purpose of this website is to clarify the therapeutic domains used by Occupational Therapists within equine-assisted services.
EAOT-UK's Core Values
Our core values shape the work of EAOT‑UK and strengthen the standards that drive excellence in equine‑assisted occupational therapy.
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Professional Excellence
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Leadership in Emerging Practice
- Inclusive Practice
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Evidence-Informed Practice
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Meaningful Participation
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Shared Learning
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Partnership Working
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Ethical Partnership with Equines: Equine Welfare is paramount
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Mission Statement
EAOT‑UK is a UK-wide network of Occupational Therapists committed to progressing equine-assisted occupational therapy through collaborative practice, specialist education, and research-led development.
EAOT-UK's History
EAOT‑UK was established in 2015 by Occupational Therapists Maggie Bracher and Rhona Harkness as a self‑governing network designed to promote the therapeutic value of equine partnership and to provide professional support and education for Occupational Therapists working in this field.
The network has since evolved into a well‑established community of Occupational Therapists who play an active role in defining and promoting the Occupational Therapy contribution to equine‑assisted therapy. This work includes setting high standards of practice, collaborating with equine professionals, delivering specialist education, and undertaking research.
EAOT-UK's Aims and Objectives
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Increase public awareness of the Occupational Therapy role within equine‑assisted services and its contribution to health, wellbeing, and meaningful occupation.
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Promote understanding of the therapeutic benefits of equine‑assisted occupational therapy.
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Provide supervision and mentorship for Occupational Therapists working in equine‑assisted practice.
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Deliver specialist education for Allied Health Professionals and Equine Coaches to support the development of advanced knowledge and skills.
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Advocate for the contribution of equine‑assisted occupational therapy to public health across the lifespan.
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Maintain and strengthen partnerships with relevant organisations.
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Foster collaborative and effective partnership working across the sector.
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Undertake research and support evidence‑informed practice.
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Contribute to strategic workforce planning for the future of equine‑assisted occupational therapy.
International Affairs
EAOT‑UK is not only passionate about advancing practice and learning through collaboration across the UK; we also believe that connecting with colleagues worldwide enriches our work and drives meaningful progression in the field.
EAOT‑UK is a member of Horses in Education and Therapy International (HETI), a non‑profit organisation established in 1974 to connect and support global collaboration among professionals and organisations involved in Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies.
We also collaborate with the European Equine Assisted Therapy Network (EEATN). Established in 2009, this network brings together therapists from across Europe to share best practice and work collectively to develop common terminology, practice standards, education, and research within the field.
Key
Occupational Therapists ~ Green Icon ~ Practicing
Occupational Therapists ~ Yellow Icon ~ have an interest but currently not practicing