Published in the Express & Star
A new business which is offering donkey-assisted therapy is now up and running.
Jo Wightman, of Wheaton Aston, has launched Donkey EARS – Donkey Education and Relaxation in Staffordshire.
A not-for-profit community interest company, Jo and her four donkeys will be providing wellbeing sessions to a range of people, including care home residents and clients with special educational needs, as well as leisure and fun events.
Jo explained that she had the idea for the venture when she was offered similar therapy by Macmillan following an illness.
“When I had chemotherapy for cancer a few years ago it was a donkey that gave me the energy to get out of bed each day,” said Jo, who has a psychology degree and is a special educational needs teacher and advisor with over 30 years’ experience working with a wide range of people and families.
“During my time volunteering for Macmillan supporting those with cancer and for Riding for the Disabled I encountered many others who benefited in the same way from the therapeutic presence of gentle equines so the idea for Donkey EARS was born.
“Donkeys are mild and calm and that encourages trust and confidence, making them ideal partners for people seeking emotional healing, personal growth and improved communication skills.
“Additionally, donkeys’ strong bond with humans and their ability to mirror emotions help participants gain deeper self-awareness and empathy.”
Covering Staffordshire, Shropshire and the West Midlands, Jo’s new enterprise benefitted from guidance and advice from Bridgnorth-based business consultants Good2Great.
She completed a free business start-up workshop run by Good2Great which are being held throughout this year and are managed by South Staffordshire District Council and Funded by UK Government.
Jo added: “The Good2Great course was just what I needed to get the ideas in my head into practical steps to make the business a reality. It gave me a clear map of what I needed to do and provided advice and support every step of the way. “
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