Shetland Pony Brings Joy to Cloverleaf Care Home in Lincoln

In a heartwarming display of kindness, residents of Cloverleaf Care Home (https://www.tanglewoodcarehomes.co.uk/our-homes/cloverleaf-lincoln/) in Lincoln were treated to an extraordinary visit from a miniature Shetland pony on February 22nd. This unique event, part of the Drop Dead Generous initiative, brought smiles, laughter, and cherished memories to the elderly residents and staff alike.

A Day of Magic at Cloverleaf Care Home

Nestled on Long Leys Road and overlooking the scenic West Common, Cloverleaf Care Home is known for its dedication to enriching the lives of its 72 residents. With state-of-the-art facilities such as a cinema room, tea room, nail bar, and landscaped gardens, the home provides a vibrant and fulfilling environment. However, this particular Saturday was unlike any other.

The Shetland pony’s visit was the brainchild of Bailey Greetham-Clark, founder of BeGreatFitness, who partnered with Rainbow Dreaming CIC, an organisation specialising in therapeutic animal visits. The tiny pony, named Joey, trotted through communal lounges and private rooms, offering residents the chance to interact with the gentle creature.

For many residents, the experience evoked fond memories of their younger years spent around animals or on farms. Smiles lit up faces as they stroked Joey’s soft mane and shared stories with staff and visitors. Even those who are typically reserved or living with dementia were visibly uplifted by the encounter.

Bailey reflected on the day:

“It was truly heartwarming to witness the smiles on the residents’ faces. Bringing a Shetland pony into the care home was a wonderful departure from our usual seated exercise sessions, and seeing the joy it brought to these remarkable individuals filled me with immense happiness.”

Powered by Kindness: Drop Dead Generous

This magical moment was made possible by Drop Dead Generous, a global kindness initiative co-founded by John Sweeney (creator of Suspended Coffees) and Tom Cledwyn (former Meta leader turned TED collaborator). Their mission is to fund 1,000 creative acts of kindness with $500 grants over two years.

John Sweeney praised Bailey’s idea:

“Care homes and Shetland ponies aren’t something you get to mix every day. This act of kindness created moments of pure joy and connection for everyone involved. It’s about reminding our elderly that they are valued and cherished.”

The Healing Power of Animal Therapy

Animal-assisted therapy has long been recognised for its ability to improve emotional well-being and foster social interaction—especially in care settings like Cloverleaf. Joey’s visit provided sensory engagement through touch while offering emotional comfort through his calm presence. For residents who may feel isolated or withdrawn, this unique experience brought them together in shared happiness.

About Cloverleaf Care Home

Cloverleaf Care Home is part of Tanglewood Care Homes’ award-winning network across Lincolnshire. Rated ‘Good’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), it offers tailored care services ranging from residential care to dementia support and palliative care. The home’s compassionate team is dedicated to creating meaningful experiences that enhance residents’ quality of life every day.

Join the Kindness Movement

This inspiring story is a testament to how small acts of kindness can leave a lasting impact—and sometimes they come on four tiny hooves! The Drop Dead Generous initiative encourages others to think creatively about spreading joy in their communities. Whether it’s organising events or surprising someone with an unexpected gesture, there are endless ways to make someone’s day brighter.

For more information about Cloverleaf Care Home or Rainbow Dreaming CIC’s animal therapy programs, visit their websites:

Tanglewood Care Homes

Rainbow Dreaming CIC

This story reminds us all that kindness can transform lives—and sometimes it arrives in the form of a Shetland pony!