West Country equine charity Healing Hooves Devon is urgently searching for a new base, and founder Lucy Culverhouse believes Cornwall could be the lifeline they need.
Launched in 2017, the charity currently cares for 12 miniature horses, 13 13-hand ponies and seven horses at rented land and stabling in Mid Devon. Among its residents is much-loved Moomin, who has dwarfism, along with several other ponies and horses who have complex medical needs.
However, after part of the land the charity leases was recently sold, Healing Hooves Devon is now facing its most challenging moment yet. A search is underway for a farm-based rental property somewhere in the South West, and Lucy hopes a Cornish farmer or landowner may be able to help.
As well as providing a safe, nurturing home for its equine residents, the charity runs equine-assisted learning and outreach programmes for vulnerable children and young people. It is also one of three finalists in the Equestrian Business Awards Charity of the Year 2026, a recognition Lucy described as “wonderful – but bittersweet.”
“It is wonderful to have our work and the efforts of our dedicated volunteers recognised,” Lucy said. “But this good news comes at the most challenging time in our history, as we urgently need to find new premises.”
Initially, the search focused on Devon and Exmoor, but with the charity’s future at stake, Lucy is now widening the net. “We want to give the horses and ponies we care for, and our equine-assisted learning programme, the best possible chance of a secure, long-term future. We would absolutely welcome opportunities in Cornwall.”
Lucy is looking for a practical farm setting. The charity's programmes for children and young adults with special educational or additional needs have become a vital part of its work. “Enabling vulnerable young people to connect with a gentle horse or pony is very special,” Lucy said. “It helps them learn about caring for an animal and gain useful skills.” The charity also provides work placements for further and higher education students, offering hands-on experience in animal care, land management and therapeutic support.
If you know of any suitable land or farm set-up in Cornwall, Lucy Culverhouse would love to hear from you. To get in touch, email [email protected]
You can find out more about the charity on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or via their website: www.healinghoovesdevon.org.uk
Equine Charity Urgently Seeks New Base in Cornwall