Claudia Winkleman visits the inspirational farm changing young lives

The films follow TV presenter Claudia Winkleman, the National Lottery’s Ambassador‑in‑Chief, as she meets projects across the UK that showcase the extraordinary difference National Lottery funding makes to local communities — all made possible because of you, the players.

At Gortilea, expert practitioner Clare McMonagle uses equine therapy to support the physical and emotional wellbeing of young people.

Claudia visited the farm with Caitlin, a National Lottery player from Belfast, to see first-hand the impact funding has had on the community.

Clare specialises in hippotherapy, a therapeutic technique that uses the natural movement of a horse to aid rehabilitation.

She has witnessed remarkable progress among the children she works with, supporting young people with autism, ADHD, paralysis and injuries sustained in accidents. “We’ve had children walk or talk for the first time. The National Lottery has been a massive support,” Clare said. “They have always backed my pioneering ideas – ideas that simply wouldn’t have been possible otherwise.”

The 140‑acre working farm also helps young people with learning difficulties gain confidence, develop social skills and even achieve formal qualifications.

Through hands‑on experiences caring for animals and the land, young people can forage for fruit, make jam, and learn how to look after animals — often for the first time.

One young man, Daniel, who once spent most days alone in his room, discovered new confidence at the farm. “It’s very much an active, working farm,” Clare explained.

“After coming here Daniel was able to take on new challenges, including training on a construction site and making new friends.”

Reflecting on her visit, Claudia Winkleman said: “It’s been absolutely wonderful visiting Gortilea Social Farm. The confidence, calm, and sheer joy shining from these young people as they connect with the horses and take part in the farm’s activities is truly inspiring.

"Clare’s work here is exceptional, and the progress, healing and hope we’ve witnessed today are only possible thanks to National Lottery players — every time you play, you’re helping fund incredible good causes just like this.”

Clare described Claudia’s visit as “surreal” but exciting for everyone. Claudia visited Gortilea in her role as Ambassador‑in‑Chief, helping highlight the incredible difference National Lottery players make to communities across the UK.

It’s Because of You that projects like Gortilea continue to thrive, supporting arts, heritage, sport and community‑led initiatives.

Gortilea received its first National Lottery funding in 2015 for social farming and a hippotherapy pilot supporting children with disabilities.

Since then, the farm has received further support for an innovative project exploring how natural heritage can promote wellbeing and help health professionals develop new therapeutic practices.