Community stories: 17 September 2024
Kanyini Connections Ltd runs an innovative equine therapy initiative designed to provide intensive support to young veterans suffering from PTSD, particularly those for whom traditional forms of therapy have been ineffective. The program aims to bridge the gap in mental health services by offering a unique, hands-on approach to therapy. FRRR supported the program through an In a Good Place grant, in partnership with CCI Giving.
The Young Veterans program provided private, two-hour equine therapy sessions to each participant, once a week, for 12 weeks. While the original idea was to support 48 people over the year, it became evident that some participants would benefit greatly from additional sessions. Consequently, the decision was made to further narrow the focus, ultimately supporting 24 participants and delivering a more profound and impactful therapeutic experience, prioritising depth over the number of participants.
The program further evolved to focus on young women and children, as they had higher attendance rates, better outcomes, and represented the majority of applicants. This strategic shift allowed the organisation to allocate its limited resources more effectively, ensuring that participants who were most likely to benefit received the necessary support.
And the impact was significant, as evidenced by the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Health & Wellbeing Scale, which was administered before and after the therapy. The program exceeded expectations, with an average improvement in mental health and well-being of 71%, far surpassing the initial target of 30%.
Kanyini Connections Ltd. is now using the evaluation data to build a compelling case for ongoing DVA funding. This program is a powerful example of how fewer participants can lead to better outcomes when resources are concentrated on those most likely to benefit. The organisation’s commitment to adapting its approach, based on evidence and participant needs, highlights its dedication to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of young veterans. The program’s success not only provides a model for future initiatives by demonstrating the potential of equine therapy as a valuable tool in the treatment of PTSD, but also emphasises the importance of flexibility and responsiveness in program design and implementation.
“We seem to fall through the cracks of the criteria for so many funders so are deeply appreciative of your consideration for this type of service.” – Barb Blashki, CEO,
CCI Giving’s Jeremy Yipp said that it’s projects like these that need seed funding behind them to prove up their model, to see what works and what doesn’t, and why. “Without assistance through programs such as the In a Good Place program, these projects may never have the opportunity to really get off the ground and reach their full potential, or it would take a lot longer for them to do so.”
If you’d like to explore partnering with us to further support this program, please get in touch with partnerships@frrr.org.au.
