EFOT-UK is a self-governing, professional network of Occupational Therapists who provide education and mentorship for it’s members.
With additional specialised training, the OT can work in partnership with equines (horses) and this environment as an approach to therapy and learning. Research has proven that Equine Facilitated Therapy (EFT) can be a meaningful and enjoyable therapeutic approach that improves physical and mental health.
Equines are involved in many different aspects of therapy and learning.
The OT will complete assessments and interventions (therapy sessions) to meet a person’s goals in this setting. The purpose of this website is to clarify the different domains that can be used in this setting from the perspective of the Occupational Therapist (OT).
Mission Statement and Vision
EFOT-UK is a network of OTs from across the UK who are collaboratively advancing the delivery of occupational therapy practice using Equine Facilitated Therapy by sharing best practice, providing specialist education and conducting research in this field.
Core Values
- Innovation
- Empowering
- Collaboration
- Integrity
- Enhancing Potential
- Equine Welfare
History of EFOT-UK
EFOT-UK was founded by two OTs in 2015, Maggie Bracher and Rhona Harkness as a self-governing network to promote the value of working in partnership with horses in the therapeutic space and to provide support and education on the OT role within this field. EFOT-UK has become a thriving network of passionate occupational therapists (OTs) who play an active role in promoting an understanding of the OT role within the field of equine facilitated therapy. This is achieved through defining and promoting the highest standards of practice, liaising with other professionals within the equine field and delivering education and conducting research.Our Aims and Objectives
- To raise public awareness of the OT role using equine facilitated therapy to enhance health and wellbeing by improving engagement in everyday meaningful activities.
- To support OTs using equine facilitated therapy in their practice by offering supervision and mentorship.
- To support OTs who wish to develop knowledge and skills in equine facilitated therapy by delivering education.
- To strengthen public understanding of the variety of benefits gained from working in partnership with horses in the therapy space.
- To promote the role of EFOT in supporting public health across the lifespan.
- To maintain and develop links with other relevant organisations.
- To maintain and develop partnership working.
Conduct research and apply evidence to clinical practice. - To support the enhancement of workforce planning in OT using equine facilitated therapy for the future.
International Affairs
Not only are EFOT-UK passionate about advancing practice and learning from each other through collaboration in the UK, we believe connecting with colleagues worldwide provides enrichment and true practice progression.
EFOT-UK are members of Horses in Education and Therapy International (HETI). HETI was established in 1974. It is a non-profit organisation to connect and facilitate worldwide collaboration with organisations and professionals who work or have an interest in the field of Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies.
EFOT-UK also collaborate with the European Equine Facilitated Therapy Network (EEFTN). Established in 2009, the purpose of this group is to unite therapists, exchange best practice, and work together on a regular basis to discuss and develop common terminology, practice, education, and research.
Meet the network team
Occupational Therapists ~ Green Icon ~ Practising
Occupational Therapists ~ Yellow Icon ~ have an interest but currently not practising