Meet the Team
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Emma
Emma brings a remarkable depth of experience and dedication to Somerset Equus. Beginning her career as a foster carer at the age of 23, she spent eight years working with looked after children within Somerset Council. Her passion for supporting young people led her to join the Adolescent Crisis Intervention Team, where she progressed from member to team leader, before taking on the role of heading the Adolescent Support Team in Sedgemoor and later across the entire county. In 2013, Emma founded Somerset Equus, where she continues to champion the wellbeing of children, young people, and adults. Her unwavering commitment and expertise make her an invaluable part of the Somerset Equus team.
Emily
Emily holds a bachelor’s degree in Art and has spent many years working within the school system, supporting individuals with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) as well as A level art students. Alongside her extensive background in education, Emily brings many years of horse ownership, enriching our team with her deep understanding and compassion for both people and animals. Since joining Somerset Equus in 2015, her creativity has been the driving force behind the artistic element of our work. Emily’s calm, patient, open, and curious nature, combined with her creative vision, shapes the environment at Somerset Equus—without her, it simply would not be the place it is today.
Meet the Animals
Sonny
Sonny is a remarkable mare whose journey began on Bodmin Moor. Joining Somerset Equus at just 12 months old, she has grown into an inquisitive, calm, and steady presence, known for her unwavering loyalty. Sonny delights in being brushed down in the sun and takes special care of both the other horses and our visitors, making everyone feel welcome and safe.
Sylvie
Sylvie, Sonny’s foster sister, arrived at Somerset Equus just two months after Sonny. Naturally a bit more timid, Sylvie prefers to carefully assess each situation before making her move. She takes her time to process communication, which can sometimes make her seem aloof, but this gentle caution is simply part of her thoughtful nature. Despite her reserved demeanor, Sylvie is deeply caring and especially enjoys spending quiet moments with people, relishing the comfort of being brushed and forming gentle connections with those around her.
Stephanie
Stephanie is an older mare whose journey began in Ireland before traveling to Scotland and eventually joining Somerset Equus from Exeter. Previously a riding school pony, Stephanie found the stresses and demands of frequent riders and constant activity overwhelming. Having experienced rough handling in the past, she can be cautious in new situations and around unfamiliar people. However, at Somerset Equus, Stephanie thrives on the autonomy and gentle environment, relishing the space and freedom simply to be a horse.
Nancy
Nancy is a young American Miniature Horse whose cheerful spirit brightens every day at Somerset Equus. She is always ready for a cuddle or a playful run about and absolutely loves splashing around in the paddling pool-she doesn’t mind who gets wet in the process! Sometimes a bit eager to join in with the rest of the herd, Nancy will often nudge her way into the action, but she always does so with a gentle heart and not a bad bone in her body. Her joyful presence and loving nature make her a firm favorite among both the horses and visitors alike.
Lily
Lily arrived at Somerset Equus from a caring owner whose health challenges meant she could no longer look after her. Lily is extremely wary of people, and while the reasons for her caution remain unknown, what truly matters is the gentle, patient pony we see her for. We respect Lily’s need for space and give her the time she needs to build trust and form connections with us at her own pace, celebrating every small step forward as she grows more comfortable in her new home.
Florrie
Florrie, Lily’s daughter born right here at Somerset Equus, is a bold and confident young Mini Shetland. Having never experienced anything but kindness, Florrie thrives at the center of attention-whether it’s being brushed down, joining in for a walk, or splashing around in the paddling pool with Nancy. She adores cuddles and, if you sit quietly for too long, she may just come and lie down beside you.