Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) is calling upon the government to acknowledge how the equestrian sector contributes to society beyond sport.
The government is currently consulting on proposals to reform the special educational needs and disability (SEND) system with the aim of helping and supporting children and young people with SEND aged between 0 and 25.
As an organisation working directly with families, schools, and communities, the RDA sees the growing demand for SEND provision every day.
Each year, the charity enriches the lives of 39,000 disabled people – 70% of which are children and young people, often with multiple and complex needs – through its equine activities. Each RDA session is safe, supportive and inclusive and is tailored to the individual needs of participants.
Demand outweighing supply
With almost 4,000 people on RDA waiting lists and 71% of RDA groups reporting that demand exceeds capacity, the charity is hoping that the government’s consultation on proposals to reform the SEND system will recognise the need to increase capacity in activity-based learning programmes.
“RDA groups are rooted in their communities, and every day we see the difference activity-based learning makes – helping children build confidence, independence, and focus that translates into school and family life,” said Michael Bishop, chief executive of RDA UK.
“The unique combination of horses and a supportive, inclusive community unlock progress that children cannot experience elsewhere.
“Demand for our activities already exceeds capacity, and without sustained support too many children will miss out.”
Proven impact
The RDA’s Impact Report shows measurable educational, developmental and emotional outcomes. Over 70% of children feel calmer and more settled after RDA sessions and return to school more focused and motivated.
Parents and teachers say that children participating in RDA sessions have improved resilience, patience and self-esteem and improved engagement with peers and adults.
Parents, carers, and educators consistently report that RDA’s combination of non-judgmental horses and a supportive community helps children feel safe, seen, and motivated, achieving growth that cannot be replicated elsewhere. This demonstrates that RDA’s high-quality, community-based SEND provision delivers meaningful, measurable impact at scale.
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