This week, we’d like to help an 11 year old girl called Anya.

Anya and her mum were in a car accident when she was 6, which left her mum with no short term memory for more than a year. It was really hard on the whole family – Anya started having extreme anxiety and was referred to child mental health services.

Anya is also a young carer for her brother, Tom, who is autistic. His behaviour is very challenging, and he's often aggressive and violent towards his mum. Anya’s mum and dad separated a few years ago, and Anya has helped to look after her brother ever since.

Tom’s behaviour makes leaving the house as a family very difficult, so Anya misses out on a lot. She has become more and more anxious over the years and has also been diagnosed with OCD. Her teacher said Anya is such a kind and caring little girl, but she has very low self-esteem and she worries about her transitioning into high school next year.

Her mum said: “My happy, bubbly little girl has gone... she really struggles to build trust and to relax with people.”

Anya has tried all types of therapy and nothing has helped. Her mental health worker noticed a big difference in her when she was around animals, and has recommended equine therapy - called ‘Think Like a Pony’. Unfortunately it isn’t funded on the NHS and her mum can’t afford it.

We’d like to help.