ABOUT US
What began with a handful of rescued goats has grown into something truly special — a unique blend of fun, care, and community support. Today, Hensell Goat Rescue is a vibrant wellbeing centre, raising awareness of mental health and offering animal-assisted therapy in the most unexpected of ways: through the joyful, calming presence of goats.
Our farm provides a large, peaceful green space where people can connect with animals, nature, and each other. Through land-based activities and gentle interaction with our inquisitive and affectionate goats, visitors of all ages and abilities experience real benefits — improved mood, increased confidence, a sense of purpose, and a space to simply be themselves.
We are proud to welcome everyone, regardless of limitations or background. Our goats don’t judge — they just offer warmth, curiosity, and a surprising amount of character.
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
FROM HEARTBREAK TO HOPE
Our journey wasn’t planned. In 2018, we began a small retirement project with rare breed sheep and goats. But in spring 2019, just as our first lambs and kids were due, disaster struck. We were left with five orphaned goat kids — just days old — who needed round-the-clock bottle feeding. It was a heartbreaking time, but we chose to give those little ones a chance at life. And that was the start of something beautiful.
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As the months passed, our goat kids thrived. We looked around and realised our farm was quietly becoming a safe haven for waifs and strays — pet sheep saved from slaughter, two elderly ponies enjoying retirement, and a yard full of rescued hens and ducks. Among them, the lively and healthy Golden Guernsey goat kids brought new energy and joy to our lives.
And so, our rescue farm was born.
After over two years of livestock isolation, we welcomed five pygmy goat kids — fluffy, cheeky, and utterly adorable. They opened a new path for us. We slowly transitioned from a rare breeds project to what we are today: Hensell Goat Rescue Care Farm, a wellbeing and mental health support centre with fundraising at its heart to keep the rescue alive.
GILLIAN'S STORY:
FROM SETBACK TO PURPOSE
Before founding the rescue, Gillian and her partner Graham bred commercial Suffolk Mule sheep and ran a Camping & Caravanning Club site in the coastal village of Anderby. Gillian also worked full-time for nine years as a Customer Care Manager at a well-known holiday park.
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But in 2009, a routine hospital procedure went tragically wrong. Gillian was left with a life-changing leg injury, severe chronic pain, and limited mobility. She could no longer continue her career or manage the demanding physical work of the farm. Life grew more difficult, and in 2014, the farm — the place Gillian had dreamed of retiring to — was sold.
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The emotional cost was deep, and Gillian experienced the weight of depression and the struggle for mental wellbeing firsthand. But with her love for animals still strong and a few remaining in her care, a new chapter began. Animals in need kept arriving, and with the help of friends and volunteers, a new lifestyle emerged. Hensell Goat Rescue became a place of new beginnings — not just for animals, but for people too.
MEET GILL & GRAHAM
VOLUNTEERS
OUR EXTENDED FAMILY
Our team of incredible volunteers helps with everything from feeding and grooming to guiding visitors on open days, running events, and caring for our rescue herd.
We’re proud to welcome people from all walks of life—simply donating time to give back or combat loneliness. Every hand helps, and every story matters.
WANT TO GET INVOLVED?
We’re always looking for more friendly faces to join us! Whether you have an hour a week or more to give, we have space for you:
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Help care for animals
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Help run goat activities
Help in the cafe
Help with paddock maintenance
Grass cutting/strimming/watering plants
Goat rehabilitation play/goat walking
Open day marshalling
Support our events
Build skills and gain experience in animal care
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Join our volunteer team and make new friends
07771 517917
