Looking after and taking care of animals helps us to look after and take care of ourselves. The Sandy Hill Community Project in Cottenham is a rural haven that gives people of all ages the chance to be around nature and animals - from cart horses to guinea pigs.
This activity is good for wellbeing because
- being around animals is calming;
- you can learn new skills at your own pace and following your own interests;
- set in fen-edge countryside, the Sandy Hill Community Project is the perfect place to spend time outdoors and in nature.
“I couldn’t stop smiling – it is a very special place run by kind and caring people!”
How to contact
Phone
Website
Where to go
Sandy Hill Community Project Centre C.I.C.
Twenty Pence Road
Cottenham
Cambridge
UK
Charity from the How Are You team learns to drive Jack the Shire horse:
What to expect
Just outside of the village of Cottenham, the Sandy Hill Community Project Centre offers a wide variety of outdoor activities to support mental health and wellbeing.
Set in 16 acres of countryside, there are eight ponies, four heavy horses and various small animals including chickens, ducks, rabbits, guinea pigs, dogs, cats and pigs. There is also an orchard, sensory garden and vegetable patch.
Whether you would like to learn about looking after animals or just want to spend time in their company, you will be supported to achieve your goals in a safe, gentle and supportive environment. Sophie and Ella have experience of working with young people and adults with social, emotional or communication difficulties and mental health challenges, including dementia. There is something for all ages and interests.
It is not a riding school and you won’t be asked to do anything you don’t want to do (if you are anxious about touching animals for example), and you will leave feeling calmer and having had a memorable time.
Projects and sessions are delivered throughout the year and are tailored to meet the needs and ages of the individuals or groups attending.
Sophie, Jack the Shire horse and Ella
More information
Wear clothes suitable for the outdoors and strong footwear.
There are toilets and a kitchen to make hot drinks.
There is plenty of car parking on site – on arrival go past the large gate that leads to a driveway to the Centre.
Sessions are tailored to the individual or group and priced accordingly.
You can arrange to meet Ella and Sophie to discuss various options for your visit(s), or you can have a chat with them over the telephone.
How to contact
Phone
Website
Where to go
Sandy Hill Community Project Centre C.I.C.
Twenty Pence Road
Cottenham
Cambridge
UK
