The aim of the RDA (Riding for the Disabled) is to provide disabled people with the opportunity to ride or to carriage drive to benefit their health and well being.

For the rider, the horse’s three dimensional movement provides a gentle rhythmic motion which is very similar to the action of the pelvis during normal walking.  This motion offers benefits including mobilisation of the pelvis and an improvement in balance and co-ordination.  The movement of the horse also helps to improve muscular development and fitness.  Confidence is enhanced as the riders manage to achieve the goals set for them, and the communication necessary between the riders, helpers and the horses helps the development of understanding and social skills.

Each session has an overall Coach in charge of the helpers, who are required to either lead the horse or side walk.  Helpers are required to support and encourage the riders.  Sometimes it needs three helpers to assist one rider at a time.

The group is made up of volunteers and as it is a charity receives no formal grants or funding of money.  It is run on donations and the goodwill and time given by the helpers.

We meet at Valley Farm Equestrian Centre at Wickham Market on Thursday mornings during term time.  At the moment we have a riding session at 10am for adult riders and Carriage Driving sessions from 10.30am for adults.

We are currently looking for more volunteers.  Experience with horses is not essential as training will be given.  If you can spare a few hours on a Thursday morning please let me know.

For more information please contact Sue at 01449 760289

 Riding for the Disabled Association Registered Charity number 244108