‘Horse Sense’ is a programme for children with autistic spectrum disorders run in the ChildVision Equine Centre, a 23-acre facility just off Griffith Avenue in Dublin that incorporates a garden centre, coffee shop and small petting zoo.

“For a child with a disability the psychological benefit of interacting with the horse cannot be underestimated,” explained chief executive Brian Allen. “The children benefit emotionally through their connection with these sensitive animals and a profound bond is experienced between the child and the horse, especially those children with a disability where communication is impacted.”