After five years at the helm of the Armed Forces Equine Charity, Jamie Balls MBE has announced his decision to step down as CEO.
Tedworth Equestrian Centre the focus is on the Horse Power Programme.
On the 9th February 2023, the Equestrian Centre in Tedworth runs the Horse Power Programme. Jamie Balls ensures the running of the Horse Power Programme which serves veterans with complex mental health challenges which is done with the veterans connecting with the horses and building a mental bond.
Horse Power Programme, supports Veterans with complex Mental Health Challenges by delivering a mix of clinical and non-clinical interventions that are tailored to the individuals needs. They facilitate equine assisted interventions that are delivered by teams from HorseBack UK. The interventions are not about riding horses but about developing powerful connections. Animals, and in particular horses, are particularly good at sensing our anxieties and stresses. To be able to form a connection with a horses the Veteran must first learn to better manage their own emotional state. This is usually achieved by day 2 or 3. From this link up moment the recovery journey can then start in earnest. The interventions are blended alongside other outdoor activities. At the early stages these need to be non-people facing and so we connect veterans with nature, other animals and the environment around them.
Army Photographer:
Cpl Aaron J Stone / MoD Crown
Maj Gen (Retd) Robert Talbot Rice CBE, Chair of Trustees of the Armed Forces Equine Charity, said:
“Jamie was the founder of this great charity and has been the driving force behind its success over the past five years. He has brought vision, rigour, and boundless energy and enthusiasm to the role of CEO. The Trustees have been especially grateful for all he has done to ensure that the facilities we operate are effective and are used as widely as possible. The success of our programmes supporting serving personnel recovery, veterans’ health, and the disabled are a great testimony to that. Jamie’s unwavering dedication and transformative leadership have been critical in achieving the charity’s mission of supporting the welfare and wellbeing of the whole Armed Forces Community. He leaves behind a legacy of innovation, compassion, and impact that will continue to shape the charity’s mission into the future. I am sorry to see Jamie move on, but grateful to have the time to plan the succession. His successor has big boots to fill.”
Reflecting on his journey, Jamie Balls MBE remarked:
“Founding and then leading the Armed Forces Equine Charity has been an incredible privilege. I am incredibly grateful for the immense support and guidance received from dedicated and committed Trustees and for all the exceptional staff who really make things happen. All have real; passion and purpose which are the vital ingredients for success in the charity sector. Over the past five years, we collectively have expanded our outreach, enhanced the welfare and wellbeing opportunities and deepened the impact of our programs. We have made a deep impact on improving people’s lives. We should all be immensely proud of what has been achieved together. My commitment to supporting the Armed Forces Community will remain steadfast, and I am honoured to have played a role in its continued evolution.”
As the charity embarks on its next chapter, the Board of Trustees will commence the search for Jamie’s successor. In due course the post will be formally advertised and a recruitment pack detailing the role and application process made available on the charity’s website.
