Posted: 11th September 2018 | Back to news feed
A national charity is encouraging more riding schools in the West Midlands to open their doors to more disabled people. Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) has found that over half of its groups in the UK have more demand than they can meet. There are currently 37 dedicated RDA groups, covering Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire and Herefordshire supporting over 2000 adults and children, and only five Accessibility Mark Centres to help meet the demand.
In addition to supporting the charities work through its network of groups, RDA is appealing to commercial riding centres to consider signing up to the Accessibility Mark scheme to try and bridge the gap.
In partnership with the British Equestrian Federation’s participation programme, RDA launched the revolutionary Accessibility Mark scheme with the aim of getting more disabled people to participate in riding
Activity Alliance research highlights the demand for opportunities for disabled people to get involved in sport and physical activity. 70% of disabled people surveyed said they would like to do more with 64% saying they would prefer to take part in sport and physical activity with a mix of disabled and non-disabled people.
Accessibility Mark accreditation is primarily aimed at centres approved by the British Horse Society, the Association of British Riding School and The Pony Club.
The scheme allows a riding centre to buy into the RDA’s strategic priorities to deliver the best experience for riders, present a positive image of disabled people and give centres credibility within their local community.
Key Reasons to Gain Accessibility Mark Accreditation:
- Powerful association with the RDA brand and the security of being a part of a national well-respected organisation.
- Access to valuable training and RDA resources, including advice and guidance from an experienced ASO (Accessibility Support Officer)
- Build relationships with the local community, providing disabled people with access to sport and activity.
- Accessibility Mark clients often fill the gap during school hours bringing in valuable extra revenue.
Accessibility Mark status is awarded to a riding centre that has been approved by RDA following training and assessment. The close link with the RDA means that it can offer continuous support to the establishment to ensure it provides a first-class experience that aims to be hugely beneficial.
There are currently 52 Accessibility Mark approved centres across the country.
To find your nearest RDA Group or Accessibility Mark centre visit www.rda.org.uk
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