THE Armed Forces Equine Charity (AFEC) is entering a new phase as Dame Sue Gray formally takes up the role of chief.

AFEC works with serving personnel, veterans, their families and communities, using the unique bond between people and horses to support recovery, rehabilitation and wellbeing.

Its programmes combine equine sport and recreation with structured learning and therapeutic support to help individuals rebuild confidence and rediscover a sense of purpose.

The charity operates through a network of equestrian centres and works closely with public, private and third-sector partners to create a clear pathway from crisis to recovery.

Participants are encouraged to take an active role in their own progress, supported by a health and wellbeing officer and tailored individual recovery plans.

Equine interaction is used to develop trust, emotional regulation and resilience, delivering benefits that last well beyond the programme.

The unique bond between people and horses supports recovery.

A symbolic handover involving one of AFEC’s horses, Petee, reflected both continuity and optimism as Dame Sue assumed leadership.

The charity is now looking ahead to expanding access to its services, strengthening rehabilitation delivery and growing its learning and community programmes.

Dame Sue Gray spoke warmly of the legacy left by the charity’s founding CEO Jamie Balls MBE.

Charity founder Jamie Balls MBE

She said: “Having founded the charity five years ago, Jamie has worked tirelessly to see his vision become a reality and as a result given so much back to the Armed Forces serving and veteran community.

“It is both a privilege and an honour to be taking over as CEO to continue his good work.”

Board of trustees chairman Major General (Retd) Robert Talbot Rice CBE added: “Jamie’s achievements as our first CEO have established the charity on a very firm footing, to the huge benefit of the military community.

“Dame Sue Gray is a talented successor who is really well placed to build on those foundations, and the future of the charity is in very safe hands.”