SOOTY the miniature Shetland pony is being used to help patients experiencing mental health difficulties.

The staff and patients at Langley Green Hospital in Crawley have enjoyed the hospital’s first “pony therapy” session.

Equine therapy can be traced back to the early 1950s where it was used as a form of psychological therapy to help people.

Isobel Clarke is a clinical specialist occupational therapist who works at Langley Green Hospital, which provides specialist mental health support for adults who are experiencing acute mental illness.

She knew the positive benefits that bringing a horse in to the hospital could bring to patients, so she looked in to how she could make it happen.

Isobel said: “I have been trying to organise a pony visit for a while now and I was really happy to find Sooty.

“As a horse owner myself, I have a great appreciation of the value and therapeutic benefits associated with horses and knew that there would be potential benefits to the people who use our services.”

After weeks of planning and preparation from Isobel and her team, Langley Green opened its doors to Sooty and her owner and welcomed them onto the wards.

During the visit, patients and staff were given the opportunity to meet Sooty, stroke her and enjoy spending time with her.

Some patients were so overjoyed to see Sooty that they were brought to tears.

Staff also said that there were patients who they had never seen smile before and they were beaming.

After a successful visit and warm reception, Sooty, who is aged 14, is due back at the hospital later this year.

To find out more about the services that Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust provides across the South of England, go to www.sussexpartnership.nhs.uk