About Us
What is Bickerscourt Wellbeing?
Bickerscourt Wellbeing’s objective is to enhance wellbeing, support healing and stimulate the growth of the individuals it supports. Through both nature and animal-assisted interventions that support the diverse needs of those in our community.
Being around animals supports healing and growth through a powerful mix of biological, psychological, and social mechanisms. This "human-animal bond" acts as a catalyst for change because animals offer a unique form of interaction free of the social pressures often found in human-to-human relationships.
Being in nature is more than just a pleasant escape; it is a scientifically supported way to restore cognitive and emotional health. The human brain and body evolved in natural environments, and the "mismatch" of modern urban living often leads to chronic stress. Returning to nature triggers several specific healing mechanisms.
Our Story
We are a family farm, established in 1894.
Bickerscourt Farm is a working farm that we consider our slice of heaven. We are very passionate about the farm, and alongside that, we breed Shire horses.
Bickerscourt Wellbeing came about after Lucy witnessed the unique and powerful connection between humans and horses, which promotes healing. Traditional therapy does not reach everyone, and we want to create a safe space in nature
After exploring this, Lucy trained with Athena Herd, gaining her Level 2 certificate in equine-assisted services, and then went on to earn her Level 4 equine-assisted diploma. During this work, she was able to work with clients and really understand how it works for them.
Meet The Team
Lucy
From an early age, I was involved in working our family farm. Time could be spent on the tractor or caring for animals alongside the daily tasks that needed doing. I was heavily involved in riding horses from a young age, and after leaving school, I became a riding instructor.
My experience over a number of years as a deputy manager of a children's farm gave me greater insight into the positive impact on children of interacting with animals and being in a natural environment.
I volunteered with the Scouts as a Beaver leader for a number of years and am very aware of the need for children to learn and develop through different methods than traditional school settings.
As a mother to two neurodiverse adults, I saw firsthand how the farm environment and horses have a positive influence on both well-being and behaviour.
I have been breeding Shire horses for the last 10 years, and as our herd has grown, we have become increasingly aware of the impact they can have on humans.
Being able to combine all of these passions in a way that supports others' wellbeing and development is why I set out to build Bickerscourt Wellbeing CIC.
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Lorna
My career spans multiple industries across a broad range of functional areas, from commercial to Human resources. I have always had a passion for nature and the outdoors, but with a full-time career, I struggled to find the time to engage fully with what was around me.
After the recent loss of my husband due to long-term illnesses, I knew it was time for a change of direction. The support and help I received while caring for my husband focused my thoughts on how to help others going through traumatic times.
Lucy and I have known each other for over 20 years, and in the last 12 months, Lucy's dedication to the Shire horses and the potential to help people through them has been unwavering. During the darkest times for me, time spent with the herd, and in particular with Ebony, cemented my belief that this was the right thing to focus my energy on.
I am working on my Level 3 Forest school leader accreditation and will be working alongside Lucy to facilitate Equine Learning and Nature-based sessions.