Equine Welfare Assistant – Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary

Job Posted: 10 July 2026

• Contract Term: Permanent
• Location: Wroxall, Isle of Wight
• Contract Type: Full time
• Salary: £12.71ph
• Industries: Agriculture & Farming Charity / Voluntary Veterinary

Equine Welfare Assistant – Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary About the Role

We are looking for an experienced and dedicated Equine Welfare Team Member to join our friendly team. This hands-on role requires exceptional standards of animal husbandry, attention to detail and a genuine commitment to equine welfare.

The role is varied; you’ll play a key part in their lives – from feeding, grooming and offering companionship. You’ll be sharing knowledge with the public and providing an outstanding experience to our visitors.

This is a full-time permanent contract starting as soon as possible, working 40 hours per week. The working pattern will be agreed with the line manager but will include weekends and bank holidays.

Due to Health s Safety reasons, we can only accept applications from candidate who are 18+

What You’ll Be Doing

• Feeding the donkeys with hay, hard feed, and any special diets, making sure every donkey gets exactly what they need.
• Cleaning, disinfecting and maintaining a high standard of cleanliness and hygiene in all barns, shelters and stables, including other work areas.
• Keeping a watchful eye on the donkeys each day, looking out for any changes in their behaviour, appetite, or health.
• Helping with grooming, hoof care, and other routine treatments.
• Joining in with enrichment and training activities that help the donkeys feel relaxed, stimulated, and confident.
• Being a supportive and reliable member of the Equine Welfare Team, making sure daily jobs are done to a high standard.
• Supporting volunteers making them feel welcome and showing them how to look after the donkeys in the right way.
• Helping visitors enjoy their time with us, making sure they learn about donkeys and leave with happy memories.
• Being a positive and friendly face for our charity and helping others understand why donkey welfare matters.

About You

• Demonstrable experience of animal husbandry (preferably working with equines), understanding individual behaviour patterns and overcoming challenges.
• Excellent observation skills and the ability to identify and notice signs that would indicate ill health in equines.
• Willing to undertake work related training.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Reliability and flexibility is essential, our yard operates between 7.30am and 6pm
• Committed to working collaboratively and positively within a team.
• Full valid driving licence. Our donkeys may need to visit the vets in Liphook which you would be supporting.
• Experience of using small farm machinery an advantage.

This is a physically demanding role involving carrying, lifting and working outdoors in all weathers and on a variety of terrain. Applicants must be able to carry out these duties, with reasonable adjustments where appropriate.

Why Join Us?

By joining our team, you’ll be helping to give donkeys the best lives possible while also bringing joy to the people who meet them. Every day is different, and every donkey has their own unique personality – you’ll quickly find they give back as much love and care as you give to them.

If this role is for you, and you want to be part of our journey to provide refuge, new beginnings and exceptional care for our animals, then apply today by uploading your CV and tell us a little about yourself.

The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary is an equal opportunities employer. We share your personal information internally within the organisation for recruitment purposes only. We ensure your information is treated with the care and the level of security that is compliant with the General Data Protection Regulations. Please see our full policy online: Candidate Privacy Notice | Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary

Closing date: 26 July 2026