Dive into the world of donkey-assisted activity and learn about the different types of activity on offer through The Donkey Sanctuary.
Donkeys have an innate emotional intelligence that can help develop key life skills in humans, such as self-awareness, communication, empathy and emotion management.
We allow our donkeys the freedom to work with our clients on the same level to develop empathetic relationships, which are mutually beneficial for the client and the donkey.
Donkey Facilitated Learning (DFL)
What is Donkey Facilitated Learning?
DFL is experiential learning in the presence of donkeys supported by a qualified facilitator. The aim of these sessions is to create a space for individuals to discover their own capabilities, offering opportunities to develop wellbeing and life skills, through observations of, and interactions with, the donkeys.
How is DFL structured?
Programmes run over a set number of weeks. Prior to the first session, a staff member, the client, and a designated client support will meet to gain some understanding and agree a way forward for the client. Throughout the programme, the facilitator will work alongside the donkeys, using skills to support the individual to develop aspects of wellbeing and life skills using specific session guides. Sessions are tailored to develop aspects of wellbeing and self-development, allowing facilitators to adapt sessions to meet the client’s evolving needs.
Donkey Management Programme (DMP)
What is a Donkey Management Programme?
DMP is an activity led programme, educating people on donkey welfare and wellbeing, through a physical approach. These sessions help to develop a greater understanding of the donkeys’ day-to-day care, whilst offering a unique learning environment that supports self-development and wellbeing, creating positive relationships between humans and animals.
How are DMP sessions structured?
Programmes run over a set number of weeks. Prior to the first session, a member of staff, client, and designated client support will meet, to gain some understanding and agree a way forward for the individual client. DMP programmes often develop skills in organisation, communication, decision making and develop a sense of achievement. The sessions are structured around the five Welfare Domains (Nutrition, Environment, Health, Behaviour, and Mental State); key aspects of animal care and welfare that give the client an insight into caring for donkeys and what we can do to provide for their health and happiness. As such, DMP provides an opportunity for developing a knowledge of animal care, as well as developing key life skills.
Wellbeing with Donkeys (WWD)
What is Wellbeing with Donkeys?
Wellbeing with Donkeys encompasses a unique range of sessions, offering the time and space for individuals to focus on developing skills around self-awareness, self-care and work-life balance, in natural surroundings. With a focus on promoting physical and mental health, sessions may involve interactions with donkeys, participation in mindfulness activities, or specific coaching support to develop awareness of emotional and physical wellbeing.
How are WWD sessions structured?
Sessions may run as a stand-alone, or a programme of sessions individually tailored to suit the needs of the client. Prior to the session, a member of staff, client, and designated client support will meet, to gain some understanding and agree a way forward for the individual client.
