Swindon ponies help patients combat hospital depression

Two miniature ponies have been visiting a hospital every month to “lift patients’ spirits”.

Sarah Woodland, founder of Dinky Ponies, takes her therapy Shetland ponies to Swindon’s Great Western Hospital wards in a bid to improve people’s mood and wellbeing.

Her pony Poppy has now been named a finalist in the BBC Radio Wiltshire’s Make a Difference Awards in the Animal category.

“We visit a variety of patients each time. The ponies help with depression, communication and just lifting people’s spirits. It really improves their outlook,” Ms Woodland said.

“Hospitals can sometimes feel cold and clinical and I wanted to bring comfort in an unexpected form.

“A Dinky Pony brings something magical, a little warmth, softness and a reminder that even the smallest creatures can make the biggest difference.”

Ms Woodland described Poppy as calm, kind and deeply empathetic.

“She has this amazing ability to tune into people’s emotions,” she said.

“I try not to overuse her because she’s so sensitive, but she brings such peace and positivity wherever she goes.”

She also takes her ponies to hospices and during one visit a young girl, who had not smiled in months, was overjoyed when she stroked Poppy’s nose.

“Her mum cried, she said it was the first moment that felt ‘normal’ in a long time,” Ms Woodland said.

Her other pony, Tinkerbell, has her own unique temperament tailored for therapeutic visits.

Helping the team on their rounds is volunteer Darcy, who said Ms Woodland’s connection with people and ponies makes the whole experience magical.

Ms Woodland worked closely with the hospital team for more than a year to complete the necessary risk assessments.

“It took a lot of planning, but the hospital have been fantastic. Not every place would say yes, but the support here has made it possible,” she said.

Speaking of Poppy’s Make a Difference Award nomination, Ms Woodland said: “It’s such a rewarding thing to do, but to know others see the benefit too, that’s really special.”

You can find out more about the BBC Make a Difference Awards where you live here.