Overview of OATS Services

OATS (Outdoor Animal-Facilitated Therapy Services) is a specialist therapeutic service based in West Sussex that supports children and young people with additional needs through a unique combination of outdoor, nature-based, and animal-assisted interventions. We provide both registered therapy services and alternative provision in a safe, nurturing, and rural environment.

Therapy Services

Our team of experienced professionals includes Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Therapists, and Physiotherapists. Each therapist integrates evidence-based clinical practice with animal-assisted and outdoor approaches. Animals such as ponies, goats, guinea pigs, chickens, and dogs play an active role in sessions, offering co-regulation, sensory feedback, and opportunities for connection and trust. All therapy sessions are person-centred, goal-oriented, and tailored to meet each child’s individual developmental, emotional, and sensory needs. Our work supports improvements in emotional regulation, communication, gross and fine motor development, and social confidence.

Alternative Provision

We also provide therapeutic alternative provision for children and young people who may be struggling in mainstream education due to anxiety, trauma, neurodivergence, or other barriers to learning. These sessions are structured yet flexible, with a strong focus on engaging in meaningful, hands-on activities such as animal care, bushcraft, nature walks, and outdoor projects. This model supports re-engagement with learning, develops life skills, and fosters a sense of purpose and routine in a non-judgemental, inclusive environment.

Animal Welfare and Holistic Outcomes

Animal welfare is central to our ethos. Our animals are carefully selected for their calm temperaments and are supported with species-appropriate care, enrichment, and rest. We strongly believe in mutual benefit—our animals are not used as tools, but as valued partners in the therapeutic process. It is vital that our animals enjoy their work and that they are treated with utmost respect and care. As co-facilitators in the therapeutic process, our animals' comfort, dignity and well-being is honoured in all areas.

Impact on Children and Families

Our approach builds confidence, self-worth, resilience, and self-regulation in children and young people. It creates space for growth, exploration, and acceptance—helping children reconnect with themselves and with others. For families, the benefits are far-reaching: improved relationships, increased understanding of their child’s needs, and a sense of hope and support that extends beyond each session. At OATS, we aim to strengthen not only the individual but the whole family system through meaningful, connected work.

​