The future of a popular Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) centre looks brighter thanks to the national charity stepping in, but community support is vital for it to remain for years to come.
RDA UK is working with local trustees and stakeholders to help save the RDA Unicorn Centre in Middlesbrough, following the recent announcement that the centre was at risk of folding.
The Unicorn Centre has provided life-changing opportunities through horses for nearly 30 years, supporting people with physical and learning disabilities, sensory impairments, long-term health conditions, and neurodiversity.
The challenges facing the Unicorn Centre reflect a wider national trend, with rising costs putting pressure on equestrian facilities across the UK. RDA centres are particularly vulnerable despite their proven impact on health, wellbeing, and social inclusion for disabled people.
In response to the Unicorn Centre’s situation, the RDA has stepped in to provide short-term support, but stresses that the centre’s long-term survival must be the responsibility of the local community.
“The Unicorn Centre has long been a vital and influential part of the RDA community, providing life-changing opportunities for disabled people and their families,” said Michael Bishop, CEO of RDA UK. “Its impact over nearly three decades is a direct result of the dedication and leadership shown by local trustees, staff, volunteers and supporters.
“While the scale and importance of the centre compel RDA UK to act, our national team’s role is to provide short-term stability, not long-term management. The centre’s future must be led and secured by the local community.
“We can only create a sustainable future if new trustees, volunteers and donors step forward now to build on this proud legacy and ensure the Unicorn Centre continues its vital work for generations to come.”
This immediate support is ensuring continuity of sessions while work continues to appoint a permanent operations manager, recruit additional trustees and develop a long-term recovery plan.
RDA’s activities have an enormous impact on the lives of disabled people – ninety percent of participants gain confidence, eighty eight percent improve posture, balance, and coordination, and eighty percent of parents and carers say these changes would not have happened without RDA.
RDA UK and the Unicorn Centre are now calling on individuals, businesses, and supporters across the region to step forward and help support its continuation.
“Now, more than ever, we need people with business experience to join as trustees including forming a short-term project board, volunteers with time to give, and donors who can contribute financially,” added Mr Bishop.
“Our role is to steady the ship, but its long-term direction must come from the community it serves. The future of the Unicorn Centre, and the health and wellbeing of those who rely on it, will only be secured through local commitment, leadership, and collective effort.”
To support the Unicorn Centre via its Just Giving page, click here.
