Familiar face returns to Pembroke Dock with new IT venture
The idea for the haven came from deeply personal roots. Founder Jess was inspired to launch the project after her seven-year-old daughter, Charlotte, was diagnosed with autism.
'She is the whole reason I started it up,' said Jess. 'You don't realise what's not out there for you until you are in that situation—whether it's not being able to do crowds or learn the way everybody else does.'
With Charlotte attending a learning resource centre and Jess's son Arthur being home-schooled due to a rare immune condition, the family's experiences helped shape the ethos behind the centre. 'With our family set up came the experience and passion to deliver this,' she said.
The haven is nestled in acres of countryside and offers one-to-one horse riding sessions, farmyard experiences, and tailored interactions. But it's not just horses—Jess's growing menagerie includes 20 horses, 14 dairy sheep, two Valais Blacknose sheep, around 30 chickens and ducks, three goats, and two rabbits. 'They can learn things here that they don't in school,' Jess explained, pointing to her own background as someone who thrived in hands-on, practical learning environments.
As well as riding, the centre provides animal-assisted therapy and non-riding experiences such as feeding lambs and caring for chickens and pigs—experiences that are often life-changing for young visitors.
One child, previously placed in an unsuitable school, flourished so much at Jess's Horse Haven that their family was able to successfully advocate for a move to a learning resource centre. They even gave a presentation at their new school titled 'My Farm.'
Another young visitor who had experienced significant trauma and was initially unable to leave their mother's side now spends two hours a week at the farm—gaining confidence, independence, and joy. 'They've made so much progress and now enjoy positive play, acting out the farm at home. It's amazing,' said Jess.
The farm, which is rented to the family by local landlord Phil Rees, has been given 'a new lease of life,' according to Jess, who praised Rees for his support in helping them build something that genuinely makes a difference.
Since opening in December 2024, the response has been overwhelming. Jess, who is first aid trained and DBS checked, now operates with support staff and has even introduced weekend sessions and holiday events like Pirate Rides and Pony Treasure Hunts.
'We have everyone,' Jess added. 'Everyone can come in and just be themselves.'
Jess's Horse Haven is fully insured and licensed. All sessions are by appointment.
To learn more or to book a session, visit www.jesshorsehaven.co.uk, follow Jess's Horse Haven on Facebook and Instagram, or call 07502 545126.
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