Representatives from ten member organisations of the National Equine Welfare Council (NEWC) recently came together for an online workshop exploring how charities can continue to support equines in need amid increasing welfare pressures.
The workshop was run by NEWC for its members and led by The Donkey Sanctuary, bringing together colleagues from across the sector to share expertise on the veterinary, behavioural and practical considerations that support informed welfare-led decision-making for equines in need.
The workshop provided an opportunity for teams from different organisations to connect, share experiences and learn from one another, reinforcing the value of collaboration in addressing the challenges currently facing the equine welfare sector.
The impact of the rising cost of living on equine keepers has been well documented, with 81% of respondents to NEWC's 2024 Cost of Living Survey expressing concern about increasing costs. Since then, financial pressures have continued, while poor crop yields and forage shortages have created further challenges for horse, pony, donkey and mule owners.
Speaking about the workshop, Hannah Bryer, Head of Welfare at The Donkey Sanctuary and a Director of NEWC, said:
"Charities are not immune from these economic and environmental challenges, so whilst demand for help is rising, capacity in charity care is becoming increasingly limited. Many charities have needed to adapt to ensure the long-term future of the animals in their direct care and carefully manage new admissions.
"At The Donkey Sanctuary, we have a long history of rehoming and providing lifelong sanctuary care for donkeys and their hybrids. We are continually learning from these experiences and regularly review how we do things to support good welfare outcomes for donkeys in different contexts.
"It is always valuable to get together with NEWC partners to share insights and explore solutions to common issues. By working collaboratively, we can work more effectively and in turn support more equines."
The importance of sharing knowledge and experience was also reflected by Rosie Mogford, Head of Equine Care and Training at Bransby Horses, who recently visited The Donkey Sanctuary's headquarters in Sidmouth to learn more about its approach.
Rosie said:
"We work together a lot with other equine charities. We have worked with The Donkey Sanctuary for a number of years, and it's important to us to share ideas and learn from each other, to help donkeys in the UK.
"At Bransby Horses, we're being asked to help people more as life becomes more difficult, and the challenge for us is to help the people who ask for our help and the equids out there in welfare need.
"I've found it really impressive how The Donkey Sanctuary takes both veterinary and behavioural care very seriously and finds a balance. At Bransby Horses too, we think the holistic care of our equines and donkeys is important, and we like to keep a balance for the wellbeing of the animals in our care."
Hannah added:
"We understand it is a difficult time for equine owners and encourage them to seek advice and support at the earliest opportunity."
NEWC is grateful to The Donkey Sanctuary for leading this workshop and to all member organisations who contributed their expertise and experience. As pressures on equine owners and welfare charities continue, opportunities to collaborate, share learning and develop best practice remain an important part of NEWC's work in supporting high standards of equine welfare across the UK.
If you are an equine owner seeking advice or support, you can find details of NEWC member organisations on our Members page. Many members, including The Donkey Sanctuary, also provide specialist guidance and support through their own advice services.