Equine Assistant (1560)

For many years The Donkey Sanctuary has promoted the self-development of children and adults through the benefits of being in the presence of donkeys. We offer Donkey Assisted Activities (DAA) at our DAA centres, including Donkey Facilitated Learning (DFL), Donkey Management Programme (DMP) and Wellbeing with Donkeys (WWD). These ground-based activities support the development of people’s life skills and wellbeing, helping individuals to better deal with challenges in everyday life, while also promoting positive attitudes towards donkeys.

Do you have a passion for Donkeys? Would you like to help make a difference?

We have an excellent opportunity for a flexible and proactive person with strong interpersonal skills to join our dedicated team at The Donkey Assisted Activities Centre, Belfast. As Equine Assistant, you will care for the centre’s donkeys in line with current policy and practice and assist in the provision of donkey-assisted activities for vulnerable children and adults, both on and off The Donkey Sanctuary sites.

About you:

• Experience working with equines, preferably donkeys.
• Experience of working with vulnerable children and adults.
• Excellent communication and customer care skills.
• A real team player.
• Friendly and approachable.
• Competent IT skills.
• A full, valid driving licence.

About the role:

Your principal duties and responsibilities will include –

• Feeding, grooming, and caring for donkeys, maintaining a high standard of cleanliness throughout the centre, including stables, arena, and pastures.
• Ensuring the care and welfare of all donkeys is maintained to a high standard, including observing signs of ill health/potential ailments, and treating where appropriate.
• Supporting and assisting with donkey assisted activities.
• Assisting in the training of donkeys under the guidance of the Equine Co-Ordinator and provide input into shaping plans were appropriate.
• Working alongside internal and external equine professionals, such as the vet and farrier, as required.
• Assisting with promotional activities both in and out of The Donkey Sanctuary, including the supervision of volunteers and donkeys.

What we offer in return

Based at The Donkey Assisted Activities Centre, Templepatrick, Belfast – this is a full-time, permanent contract starting as soon as possible, working 35 hours per week, 08.30-16.30, 5 days over 7, including weekend work as part of the team rota.

Benefits:  

Competitive pension.

Life Assurance.

31 Days holiday (including Bank holidays), rising to 34 will each full year of service.

Wellbeing Team.

Recorded Pilates and Yoga classes.

Long Service Awards.

Healthshield Plan –

• Reimbursement of some medical expenses up to the specified limits per membership.
• Offers, discounts and cashback on shopping, travel and entertainment from participating outlets.
• Access to a 24/7 GP and counselling service.

Free parking.

Closing date for completed applications: Thursday 18 January 2024.  

The Donkey Sanctuary is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable people (children and adults), and expects all staff and volunteers to undertake this commitment. Applicants will be subject to safer recruitment processes, including an application for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check where required for the post.

Please note: The Guaranteed interview scheme is only applicable to candidates who consider themselves to have a disability applying for roles based within the United Kingdom.