Shine for Life CIC @ the Field of Dreams
Our Story
Shine for Life was born in the summer of 2006 after a serendipitous meeting during a yoga retreat at La Val Dieu, the "Valley of God." It was here that the founder, Gabrielle, first encountered Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP), a transformative experience that would shape the future of the organisation. Upon returning to the UK, Gabrielle completed her training with Eagala as a horse specialist. As one of the pioneering organisations introducing this innovative therapy to the UK, Shine for Life has been instrumental in establishing EAP as a recognised and effective treatment for a wide range of mental health conditions, enhancing overall wellbeing.
An invitation to feature in The Observer newspaper in 2012 accelerated the formalisation of Shine for Life into a Community Interest Company. The organisation relocated to Wineham, West Sussex, securing funding to deliver various programmes for diverse client groups. These included Equine Assisted Psychotherapy for individuals referred from Brighton Housing Trust focusing on those with dual diagnoses such as addiction and mental health issues. We started working with schools and children in residential care. Corporate leadership and team-building days were also developed, alongside television and educational projects.
In 2018 the "5 Ways to Wellbeing" Equine Therapy programme was launched, supported by The Rampion Fund, delivering over 75 hours of group sessions to more than 50 adults facing severe mental health challenges. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from clients inspired them to return as volunteers, which prompted a search for a dedicated wellbeing space to expand therapy offerings. In June 2021, in the midst of the pandemic, Shine for Life secured 18 acres of agricultural land in Henfield, West Sussex, now known as the Field of Dreams. This new space allowed for the expansion from the traditional 5 Ways to the 8 Ways of Wellbeing model, combining equine and farm animal therapy with immersive nature-based activities.
