At Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), we improve lives through the unique bond between people and horses. Each year, our network of local RDA groups support over 25,500 disabled children and adults through activities including riding, carriage driving, and non-ridden experiences such as Quiet Corners and Tea with a Pony. We are pioneers in the therapeutic use of horses, leaders in disability sport, and the only major UK charity focused specifically on the health and wellbeing benefits of bringing people and horses together.
Our innovative programmes improve mobility, boost physical health and mental wellbeing, build confidence, and teach new skills. This is all made possible by over 13,000 volunteers, 1,500 qualified coaches, 2,700 horses, and more than 400 local RDA centres.
We welcome people of all ages and abilities, including those with physical and learning disabilities, sensory impairments, long-term health conditions, and neurodiversity. With 24% of the UK population classified as disabled, we make a lasting impact through the therapeutic power of horses.
In March 2016, at the age of 7, Khianna was diagnosed with Leukemia resulting in Chemotherapy and, ultimately, a bone marrow transplant in February 2019.
In March 2020, Khianna was diagnosed with neuromyelitis optical – an inflammation of the spinal cord and optical nerve, which resulted in neck down paralysis and blindness, in a matter of days.
After another hospitalisation for COVID, Khianna was finally out of hospital and walking again by November 2021, when she joined Bradbury RDA having never ridden before. In May 2022, she competed in the RDA National Championships and came first in her class.
Without Bradbourne RDA I would not only live in a dark place physically, but my mental health would be a dark place too. I love being with the horses and the people who help out.
Recently Khianna met ThisEsme and recorded this video to share her story.
With more than 400 RDA groups operating across the UK, there are many more inspiring stories like Khianna’s. Our groups work across the UK, from cities to rural areas, bringing the joy and benefits of horses to as many people as we can.
There is unmet demand for RDA services, and the need has never been greater as more people are living with disabilities, long-term health conditions, and experiencing mental health challenges.
Our activities address the inequalities faced by disabled people in accessing activity and the natural environment.
Our centres play a crucial role in addressing social isolation and loneliness, providing volunteers and participants alike with a sense of belonging.
We welcome people of all ages and abilities with physical and learning disabilities, sensory impairments, long-term health conditions and neurodiversity.
RDA Horses have a unique role to play in addressing many of today’s growing societal challenges.
Donate today so more people like Khianna can benefit from the unique bond between humans and horses.
* £10 could help pay for educational materials and practical resources that enable RDA participants to progress and achieve their goals
* £25 could help us provide specialist training for our 13,000 amazing volunteers who make the magic happen.
* £110 could help keep a RDA equine hero in tip top condition, with feed and bedding for a month
* £500 could help us provide essential training and support to the dedicated volunteer trustees who run our 400 local groups
* Charities pay a small fee for our service. Find out how much it is and what we do for it.
