R.D.A. Causeway Coast & Glens Ltd

Public benefits

Our mission is to aid the personal development of riders. Working with horses is well documented to aid physical, mental and social and emotional development. We provide a platform for experience in working as a group, working with and helping to care for large animals, taking instruction, communicating with others, tactile development, and

learning to recognise and take responsibility for another's wellbeing (horses, helpers), including safe operating practices. Riding also provides independent movement to wheelchair users – riding simulates walking. The Centre seeks to develop Clients to the extent of their ability, having riders competing annually in the RDA National Championships, Paralympics and Special Olympic events at regional, national and international levels. The overall experience promotes amazing confidence and life skills, and the achievements and developments of our riders generates respect from the wider community, as evidenced by the support the Group receives. Riding can be a dangerous activity. However, all Instructors and Volunteers and Staff are trained, and regularly assessed to standards determined by the National Riding for the Disabled Association. In addition the centre meets the standards and is licensed as a Riding School by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, and holds both British Horse Society and Pony Club UK approval as a recognised Equestrian Centre. Persons with a physical, learning or emotional disability, mainly from the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Area. One of the aims of the group is to extend the capacity of Volunteers to improve services to Clients, and broaden their life experience. Incidentally this helps the ability in life skills, giving experiences and confidences not likely to be readily achieved elsewhere All Volunteers are given basic training in equestrian issues, health & safety, safeguarding and protection issues and team working. In addition, young people are given the opportunity to undertake a range of qualifications to authenticate their experience, including the Young Equestrian Leaders Award and Millennium Volunteers.

What your organisation does

RDA Causeway Coast & Glens Ltd provides recreational and therapeutic riding opportunities for persons with a disability living in Coleraine and surrounding districts (now combined as the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council Area).