top of page

Our Story

Karele is a registered charity making Equine Facilitated Activities and Learning accessible to all. We believe that everyone has the right to enjoy time and connection with horses and horse riding.

445370037_3324700731166878_8611159665162769489_n.jpg

Our story so far

Karele began as a small family-run organisation offering equine activities and became a registered Scottish charity 10 years ago as more families and services sought support for young people struggling with their wellbeing.

Today, we provide a wide range of Equine-Facilitated Activities, Learning, and Wellness in East Lothian, believing everyone should have the chance to benefit from time with horses. Working in a nurturing triad of horse, client, and facilitator, we support individuals - especially children and young people facing social and emotional challenges - to build confidence, resilience, and hope.

Karele is now well established, run by a dedicated staff and team of volunteers. Our founders remain the driving force behind our mission, to empower people through the healing connection between humans and horses.

WhatsApp Image 2026-02-13 at 13.06.56 (6).jpeg

At the heart of our story are the Fergusons. Their life long passion for horses, and a commitment to helping others, was the inspiration for Karele. Their hard work and dedication have made Karele into the community it is today.

The Fergusons

WhatsApp Image 2025-12-22 at 11.57.20 (29).jpeg

Our hub is a unique place where we all come together to plan, fundraise, or just have a cup of tea. It is the heart of Karele and gives opportunity to pause, relax and have fun. All in a safe and nurturing place.

The Centre / Hub

393681461_3187251864911766_4397505220848262108_n.jpg

Our plans
for 2025

  1. Run pilot projects of our three new programmes - Mare Health and Well-being, Neigh One Left Behind and Taking The Reins Club through securing funding from trusts, lotteries and cooperative sponsors.

     

  2. Become SQA accredited so that we can offer level 4,5 and 6 in horse care.

     

  3. We are hoping to purchase a Kubota to help us transport hay and feed to the fields, a tractor to keep the lower fields clean and an Inky Dinky Saddle for the little users. This equipment will help us keep our horses safe and sound and enable youngsters to ride safely.

     

  4. Continue to expand our current programmes!

"M has been receiving Equine Facilitated Learning through Karele for the past couple of years as part of her blended school timetable. She absolutely loves her time at the stables and the bonds that have been built with the horses and staff. Predictability, consistency and patience are the key factors M needs in her life to feel safe & regulated and there’s never any doubt that she’ll get all these things when she’s at Karele. Not only that but the learning opportunities for M in terms of horses, but also the ripple effect into other curriculum areas as well as socially, are provided every week making the whole experience hugely beneficial. We can’t thank Cath and the team enough for this wonderful experience that they provide for M.

Mum

bottom of page