A Gift of Time, Connection and Hope
On Monday, Community Volunteers Wales had the privilege of visiting the farm to spend time with Peter Heathcote’s remarkable Icelandic horses.
At first glance, it may have looked like a simple day out. Twenty three volunteers, a farm, two beautiful horses and a few hours away from everyday life.
But it was so much more than that.
The volunteers who joined us represent the very best of community. Among them were young people and older adults, unpaid carers, neurodivergent volunteers, people with additional learning needs, hearing impairments, mobility challenges, mental health struggles, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and a Ukrainian refugee rebuilding a life far from home.
These labels often tell only part of a story.
What they do not tell you is that these are the people who show up.
They are the people who make kindness calls, support food projects, serve customers in our community cafés, help at events, deliver food parcels, welcome new faces, listen without judgement and give their time freely to make their community a better place.
Many carry their own challenges. Yet every day they choose to help others.
Yesterday was about recognising that.
As the heatwave arrived, Peter had carefully prepared for our visit. A shaded paddock, chairs, a gazebo and a warm welcome awaited us. Alongside Sophie, whose friendliness and knowledge helped everyone feel at ease, they created an environment where people could simply be themselves.
Then there were the horses.
Gentle, patient and quietly powerful, the Icelandic horses seemed to understand exactly what people needed from them.
Some volunteers approached with excitement. Others approached with nervousness. A few approached carrying genuine fear.
Yet one by one, barriers fell away.
People who doubted themselves found courage.
People carrying stress found calm.
People who spend their lives supporting others allowed themselves, for a moment, to be supported.
There was laughter. There were tears. There were moments of reflection and moments of celebration. There were stories shared, friendships strengthened and fears overcome.
In a world that often feels rushed, noisy and demanding, the horses offered something incredibly rare: presence.
No expectations.
No pressure.
Just connection.
The therapeutic benefits of spending time with horses are increasingly recognised. Horses encourage mindfulness, confidence, emotional regulation and trust. They invite people to slow down and focus on the present moment.
Yesterday, we witnessed those benefits first-hand.
Yet perhaps the greatest gift was not the horses alone.
It was Peter’s willingness to share.
To open his home.
To share his knowledge.
To give his time.
To create an experience where people felt valued.
Time is the most precious commodity any of us possess. Once spent, it cannot be replaced. The generosity shown by Peter and Sophie reminds us of something important: communities become stronger when people share what they have with others.
At Community Volunteers Wales, we often speak about the importance of volunteering. Volunteering is not simply about giving; it is also about belonging. It creates friendships, purpose, confidence and connection. It helps people discover strengths they did not know they had.
But even the most dedicated volunteers need time to pause, recharge and invest in their own wellbeing.
Yesterday reminded us that self-care is not selfish. It is essential.
When we take time to rest, connect and replenish ourselves, we return stronger, healthier and better able to continue supporting those around us.
We left the farm feeling brighter, lighter and more hopeful.
Volunteer “Brace”, who spent much of the time helping people get on and off the horses, said:
“I thought the horses were amazing! It was amazing to see how people like Noah and Tara overcame such big fears with the help of such patient, understanding horses. I must say that I forgot all my worries at the moment and was transported to a place of tranquillity and peace. Please include me on any future trips!”
The therapeutic effect of the horses was evident throughout the day.
Juliet, aged 73, shared:
“I felt very safe with him on the lovely calm horse, having only been on a horse twice before in my 73 years!”
Lesley added:
“I love being around animals. They are beautiful, friendly horses and very calming.”
Most importantly, our volunteers left knowing that their contribution matters.
To Peter and Sophie, thank you for helping us create those moments.
As Nic said: “They are beautiful horses in looks and temperament. Peter’s passion and pride in the horses shines through. Thank you for sharing them with us.”
To Svali and his equine companion Svipur, thank you for your patience, gentleness and quiet wisdom.
And to every volunteer who joined us, thank you.
Your challenges do not define you.
Your generosity does.
Yesterday was a reminder that those who spend their lives giving to others deserve opportunities to receive, too.
Sometimes all it takes is a little time, a little kindness, and the gentle presence of a horse.
