A NEW programme from the British Horse Society (BHS) is aiming to help young people who are not in education, employment or training get their lives back on track.

The society, the largest equine charity in the UK, launched the new programme entitled Changing Lives through Horses on Sunday.

Actor Martin Clunes, the society’s president, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be supporting this new programme from the BHS, which is aimed at the younger generation to help them get back into education and the workplace. It’s about young people learning new skills in a unique environment.”

The programme uses the equestrian environment to provide young people with a natural sense of structure and responsibility. By working with horses the young people are able to connect once again with society and improve their wellbeing.

Lynn Petersen, chief executive of the British Horse Society, said: “These magnificent horses can help inspire, motivate and educate young people.

“The programme is designed to build their confidence and their desire to want to learn again. I believe we have hit a nerve.

“By learning how to react with horses, their confidence and abilities have been brought out once again. It’s incredible, and it’s all done through the magic of horses.”

The programme will be delivered through selected centres across the country. The BHS is working in partnership with secondary schools and youth organisations, as well as other wellbeing and mental health charities: Place2Be, Riding for the Disabled Association, Athletic Community Trust (CACT), Youth Sports Trust, UK Youth and Learning through Landscapes.