RDA x Estribos Special Edition Merch

November 8, 2024

Celebrate with Us! Exclusive RDA x Estribos Special Edition Merch for the London International Horse Show

Meet the Trustees at Aim RDA: Challenging Stereotypes and Changing the Face of Trusteeship

November 7, 2024

Our newest group, Aim RDA, are breaking down stereotypes and redefining what it means to be a trustee.

Natalie O’Rourke Awarded 2024 Birt Spooner Cup at RDA’s 55th Anniversary AGM

November 5, 2024

We proudly announced Natalie O'Rourke as the recipient of the 2024 Birt Spooner Cup at our 55th Anniversary AGM.

Joe’s Virtual National Championship Story

November 5, 2024

Ahead of the National Virtual Championships, we hear from Joe, who shares his journey of participating in the event and what it means to him.

Sophie Christiansen Announces Her Retirement From Para Dressage

November 5, 2024

One of Britain’s most successful para dressage athletes, Sophie Christiansen, has announced that it’s time to hang up her riding boots.

London International Horse Show – Live Zone Schedule

October 31, 2024

Throughout the week, our presence at the London International Horse Show will feature two key attractions: our Live Zone sessions and our interactive RDA Stand.

Millie’s Virtual National Championship Story

October 30, 2024

Ahead of the National Virtual Championships, we hear from Millie, who shares her journey of participating in the event and what it means to her.

The Life of a Trustee: Insights from Glynis Dalley

October 29, 2024

As Trustee Week approaches, Glynis Dalley shares her experiences, insights, and the significance of being a Trustee in her life.

Birt Spooner Cup 2024 Nominees Announced

October 28, 2024

As one of the most prestigious honours within the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) community, the Birt Spooner Cup recognises exceptional dedication, service, and contributions that have significantly advanced the mission of RDA and para-equestrianism.

RDA Virtual National Championships Schedule

October 28, 2024

The RDA 2024 Virtual National Championships will be hosted via live stream on 15th, 16th and 17th November 3:30PM - 8PM. Watch all of the action over on our YouTube @RDANational 

Hear From Our RDA Virtual National Championship Judges And Experts

October 25, 2024

With only weeks to go until our Virtual National Championships, we caught up with our judges and discipline experts to get insights on what they’ll be looking for and what sets this event apart.

RDA feature in People’s Postcode Lottery campaign

October 11, 2024

RDA rider Maddie, and Aimee the pony, thank players of People’s Postcode Lottery Lottery in new campaign, alongside Ellie Goulding and Tom Allen.

RDA Celebrates 55th Anniversary with Launch of Special ‘Over and Above’ Award Certificates

October 4, 2024

As part of our 55th Anniversary celebrations, we are excited to introduce the limited-edition 55th Anniversary Over and Above Award.

The Diamond Anniversary of Chigwell Riding Trust 

August 23, 2024

This year, Chigwell Riding Trust for Special Needs celebrated its 60th Anniversary. Since 1964, the Group has hit milestone after milestone, from being the world's first purpose-built centre to welcoming Rags the Blue Peter pony, and even former riders going on to Paralympic success.

From RDA to the Paralympics…

August 22, 2024

Since the pioneering games of Atlanta 1996, the British Paralympic team has frequently included former RDA riders, including the London 2012 Games, where all five members of the team started their equestrian journey with us, and this year’s Games are no different.

Success for the 2024 RDA National Championships

August 8, 2024

Every year, the RDA National Championships takes place at Hartpury University & College in Gloucester and this year was a special year as RDA celebrated it’s 55th anniversary.

ParalympicsGB announces para equestrian squad for Paris 2024 Paralympic Games

July 18, 2024

ParalympicsGB has confirmed the four para equestrian athlete and horse combinations set to compete at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

The Susan Dudley-Smith Award Winner 2024

July 8, 2024

RDA Carriage Driving is indebted to Susan Dudley-Smith for wishing to recognise our ‘unsung heroes’. Each year the Susan Dudley-Smith award recognises an outstanding volunteer who has made an important contribution to RDA Carriage Driving through hard work and often unsung efforts, and this years' recipient is Karen Lehner from Barrow Farm RDA.

RDA announced as official charity partner of London International Horse Show

July 5, 2024

Riding for the Disabled Association [RDA] has been announced as the London International Horse Show's official charity for the 2024 edition of the event.

Volunteers presented with the most prestigious RDA award

July 3, 2024

This year, 12 volunteers have received the most prestigious award there is in RDA, the President's Award. The President’s Award stands as the pinnacle of volunteer recognition within the RDA.

2024 RDA Coaching Award Winners Announced

July 2, 2024

RDA are overjoyed to announce the winners of the 2024 RDA Coaching Awards.

2024 RDA Annual Award Winners Announced

July 1, 2024

The RDA Annual Awards celebrate the dedication, passion and commitment of individuals who have made a significant impact on our community over the past twelve months.

RDA Volunteer awarded a British Empire Medal for exceptional service

June 21, 2024

A huge congratulations to Carol Hipkin, founder and Group Chief Instructor of RDA Colchester Group on being awarded a British Empire Medal.

British Equestrian announces para dressage nominated entries for Paris 2024 Paralympic Games

June 14, 2024

British Equestrian and the British Dressage Selectors can today confirm the 12 para dressage athlete and horse combinations that will be submitted to the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) as our nominated entries for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

“I may not be paid a penny, but the rewards I do get are so much more…”

June 3, 2024

Volunteering can mean different things to each individual, for some it is making new friends or spending time with horses or making a difference to other people’s lives and to others it is all three.

A mother and son volunteering team find a way to give back

June 3, 2024

Glynis and Matt Dalley were first introduced into RDA when Matt was just six years old when he started as a rider. Nearly 25 years later, both Matt and Glynis are key members of the team at Scropton RDA and the North Midlands Region.

Young Volunteer celebrated by the Federation of Irish Sport

June 3, 2024

Rachel McBride, a volunteer and coach at Omagh RDA in Northern Ireland has been chosen as a recipient of the 2023 Volunteer in Sports Award. Rachel received a nomination due to her drive, passion, and energy in supporting the riders at Omagh RDA.

Forty Laps for Forty Years of Erme Valley RDA

April 18, 2024

Meet RDA rider Sarah and her friend Laura, who are taking on the challenge of doing 40 laps of the Tamar Bridge, all in effort to support Erme Valley RDA Group in Devon.

Team RDA Taking on the TCS London Marathon

April 16, 2024

Meet the RDA Marathon Team running in the 2024 TCS London Marathon. Each member of the team has a special RDA connection, making their fundraising efforts all the more meaningful.

Charter for the Horse: a unified approach to safeguarding our equines and equids

March 28, 2024

British Equestrian (BEF), our 19 member bodies and associated industry leaders have united to commit to endorse the highest standards of equine welfare, wellbeing and ethics under a new ‘Charter for the Horse’.

Emma’s Journey to Gold

March 5, 2024

After two years of hard work, Emma Harris becomes the first participant to achieve the RDA Gold Award for Horse Care at Barrow Farm Riding for the Disabled (RDA) in Chelmsford.

Volunteers Royally Honoured with RDA President’s Awards

February 7, 2024

In January, five people were presented with RDA’s most prestigious volunteer award, awarded for outstanding service to RDA over a period of 30 years or more.

A Royal Day to Remember at Nantwich & District RDA

February 7, 2024

HRH The Princess Royal has officially opened a new Centre and facilities for Nantwich & District RDA Group at Reaseheath College.

RDA Appoints New CEO

January 25, 2024

RDA is delighted to announce the appointment of Michael Bishop as new Chief Executive.

RDA Creative Writing Competition 2024

January 19, 2024

Now in it's eighth year, the RDA Creative Writing Competition is open for 2024.

Anna Celebrates a Lifetime of Volunteering with RDA

December 18, 2023

Anna Power, a volunteer with the Riding for the Disabled Association’s Unicorn Centre based at Hemlington, Middlesbrough, has been presented with the RDA’s 25 Years of Service for Volunteering.

RDA Appoints Helena Vega-Lozano as New Chair of Trustees

December 15, 2023

RDA is delighted to announce the appointment of Helena Vega-Lozano as the organisation’s new Chair of Trustees.

Celebrating the Achievements of 2023

December 7, 2023

Celebrating some of the incredible achievements of our participants and volunteers over the last year.

RDA Coaches Conference 2023

November 15, 2023

From the Annual Coaching Awards, to the Society of Master Saddlers, the 2023 Coaches Conference was an event not to be missed...

New RDA Group Opens!

August 24, 2023

Onley Grounds RDA are the first new RDA Group to open for 2 years! Read all about them and their exciting plans for the future.

RDA Welcomes a New Board Member

July 27, 2023

RDA welcomes Barbara Manson as Trustee for Scotland to its Board of Trustees.

RDA Participant Chosen for Wimbledon coin toss

July 25, 2023

RDA participant Philippa George performed the coin toss at the Wimbledon Ladies' Singles Final on Centre Court on Saturday 15th July in front of an audience of 4.5 million.

RDA Volunteers Receive Royal Honour in King’s Birthday Honours

June 27, 2023

Find out about the volunteers honoured in this year's King's Birthday Honours.

Annual RDA Award Winners Announced

June 23, 2023

Find out who has won this year's RDA Awards, including Participant of the Year and Volunteer of the Year.

UK Coaching Week – Diversity & Inclusion

June 13, 2023

For UK Coaching Week, RDA Advanced Coach, Mel Tomlinson, tells us about how she incorporates diversity & inclusion into her coaching.

UK Coaching Week – Mental Health & Wellbeing

June 13, 2023

For UK Coaching Week, Natalie O'Rourke tells us about her PRCA experience and tells us about one of her participants who is facing mental health challenges.

Let the Ponies Work Their Magic

May 18, 2023

A new project out of Penniwells RDA called Let The Ponies Work Their Magic is helping to tackle some of the mental health challenges faced by young people in their community. #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek

Social Prescribing at Saxon RDA Helping to Tackle Mental Health Challenges

May 18, 2023

Read about the amazing work RDA member group, Saxon RDA, are doing in working closely with Wiltshire Council and Social Prescribers in the county to receive people who are socially prescribed to their Group and helping some with their mental health challenges. #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek

RDA UK Board Welcomes Three New Members

April 6, 2023

The RDA UK Board are delighted to announce the appointment if three new members, Ellie Orton, Rachel Vaughan-Johns and Simon Bragg.

Statement from the RDA UK Board 29.03.23

March 30, 2023

A statement released from the RDA UK Board regarding an important update to our governance and National Office.

National Equine Show nominates RDA as Charity Partner

February 28, 2023

Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) is delighted to have been chosen as charity partner at the inaugural National Equine Show that runs from 4th – 5th March at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham.

Bolesworth Joins Forces with Helite UK & RDA

February 22, 2023

Bolesworth has partnered with Helite UK and Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) for its 2023 season of equestrian events.

RDA Volunteers Recognised in New Year’s Honours List

January 9, 2023

The New Year Honours List for 2023 recognises the achievements and service of extraordinary people, and the RDA are delighted that two of our long serving volunteers are among the first to receive honours from King Charles III.

Our Highlights of the Year

December 21, 2022

“She’s definitely come out of her shell” Read about Noreen’s Hippotherapy Journey

December 15, 2022

Protected: RDA Announces Appointment of new CEO

December 6, 2022

Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) have announced that Kathryn England has been appointed as their new Chief Executive. Kathryn joins RDA from Zoological Society of London (ZSL) London Zoo, the international conservation charity and global destination, and will start on 1st March 2023.

RDA supports Disability History Month

November 25, 2022

RDA supports disability history month

Record entries at RDA Virtual National Championships 2022

November 7, 2022

The Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) Virtual National Championships that took place over the weekend of October 29th to 30th were watched by thousands of viewers across YouTube and Facebook, showcasing the skills of disabled competitors via these digital platforms.

RDA Coach of the Year a finalist in the UK Coaching Awards 2022

October 27, 2022

RDA Coach of the Year a finalist in the UK Coaching Awards 2022

Winners of the RDA Coaching Awards Receive their Awards at Coaching Conference

October 5, 2022

Winners of the RDA Coaching Awards Announced

RDA Announces New National Vaulting Lead

September 30, 2022

RDA Announces New National Vaulting Lead

RDA Extends its Condolences to the Royal Family Following the Sad Passing of Queen Elizabeth II

September 14, 2022

RDA mourns the loss of our nation’s Sovereign, Queen Elizabeth II.

Rider of the Year shows ‘gracious understanding of what it means to be part of RDA’

July 19, 2022

Annual awards presented at RDA National Championships

Triumphant return of RDA Championships

July 18, 2022

Rosette time!

National Championships 2022 Results

July 16, 2022

RDA National Championships results are in

Suspension of Sunday competition following weather warning

July 12, 2022

Championships suspended on Sunday 17th July due to severe weather warning.

RDA National Championships returns

July 11, 2022

RDA National Championships returns

RDA supports Activity Alliance findings

June 29, 2022

RDA supports findings

British Equestrian and its member bodies pledge to improve equality, diversity and inclusion in the equestrian community

June 20, 2022

British Equestrian and its member bodies pledge to improve equality, diversity and inclusion in the equestrian community

RDA mourns the loss of Para dressage pioneer, Jonquil Solt.

June 15, 2022

RDA mourns loss of para dressage pioneer

‘Only Heroes & Horses’ tells remarkable story of saving RDA stables in London

May 26, 2022

RDA Coach launches new book

RDA smashes fundraising target as Badminton Charity of the Year

May 25, 2022

RDA Shetlands are a draw at Badminton

RDA marks Dementia Action Week with record Tea With a Pony sessions

May 12, 2022

RDA marks Dementia Action Week

RDA to showcase ‘Tea with a Pony’ as part of Badminton Charity of the Year

April 21, 2022

RDA Highlights at Badminton

Launch of new Strategic Plan: Transforming Lives Across the UK

March 28, 2022

RDA Strategy Launch

RDA named Badminton Charity of the Year

March 9, 2022

RDA named Badminton Charity of the Year

Launch of Princess Royal Coach Academy

November 8, 2021

Princess Royal announces new Coach Mentors

RDA launches consultation into ambitious 3-year strategy

November 3, 2021

RDA opens consultation into new strategy.

RDA recognises COVID challenges in Annual Awards

October 5, 2021

Winners of RDA Awards announced

Thousands tune in to Virtual RDA Championships

September 27, 2021

Triumph of Virtual National Championships

RDA group named best Health Charity in Sun Awards

September 21, 2021

Winners of 'Who Cares Wins' award

Hundreds enter first ever RDA Virtual National Championships

September 8, 2021

RDA Virtual National Championships 25&26 September

Equestrian ‘most prevalent provider of parasport opportunities’ thanks to RDA

August 19, 2021

Leonard Cheshire research shows prevalence of equestrian sport for people with disabilities

RDA hosts Paralympic team announcement

July 16, 2021

RDA hosts Paralympics Team Announcement

RDA elects Rachel Medill MBE as new Chair of Trustees

June 17, 2021

New Chair Rachel Medill MBE brings trustee and equestrian knowledge to ‘meet the growing need for support’

RDA releases impact report for ‘unprecedented’ year

June 15, 2021

With only 50% of RDA groups reopened nationwide, Princess Anne writes of ‘unprecedented challenges’

RDA volunteers recognised in Queen’s Birthday Honours

June 14, 2021

RDA Volunteers recognised in Queen's Birthday Honours

RDA launches ‘Tea with a Pony’ nationwide

May 11, 2021

RDA launches Tea with a Pony

93% of RDA participants still unable to return to riding

March 26, 2021

Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) has launched a report into current activity levels following the easing of lockdown restrictions.

RDA group smashes £1 million fundraising target

February 18, 2021

Park Lane Stables has been supporting the community during lockdown.

New Year’s Honour for RDA Chair

January 4, 2021

Sam Orde receives OBE for services to disabled people

RDA presents one-off awards to recognise COVID challenges

November 13, 2020

Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) has recognised the particular challenge faced by its groups during 2020 with series of one-off awards presented at the charity’s virtual AGM.

HRH The Princess Royal Chairs Zoom AGM

November 13, 2020

Princess Anne praises ingenuity and resilience of groups across the UK

Recognition for Coach who brought therapeutic riding to Russia

October 30, 2020

RDA ‘Birt Spooner’ Cup awarded to Lead Coach and International Liaison

First ever RDA Dressage Challenge Class at Virtual Windsor

September 23, 2020

supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery and Wychanger Saddlery

RDA UK awards £70,000 in direct grants to member groups

July 21, 2020

‘Crisis & Resilience’ fund helps groups to respond, rebuild and recover from lockdown

Princess Royal on call with RDA members

July 13, 2020

Riders and volunteers talk about the impact of lockdown and plans for reopening

Vacancy: Group Development Manager, Maternity Cover

June 22, 2020

RDA is a leading national charity, dedicated to enriching the lives of disabled people through horses and our team at national office work closely with our network of national volunteers to ensure RDA Groups are able to provide an excellent experience for those who take part in our activities.

Report reveals impact of lockdown on disabled community


June 22, 2020

Widespread impact on physical and mental wellbeing

Princess Anne sends message of thanks and support to volunteers

June 4, 2020

Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) President, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal has sent a message of support and gratitude to volunteers as part of Volunteers’ Week.

Volunteers Week 2020: RDA joins forces with other charities to say ‘thank you’ to volunteers

May 29, 2020

Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) is part of a collaborative action of organisations championing a united response for Volunteers’ Week 1-7 June.

Statement from RDA UK

May 12, 2020

Following the government’s announcement on Sunday 10 May, RDA has briefed its groups around the UK to remain closed.

RDA asks supporters to join The 2.6 Challenge

April 22, 2020

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a catastrophic effect with the cancellation of thousands of events and the loss of billions in income through fundraising events.

First RDA groups receive emergency funds from charity appeal

April 17, 2020

14 Riding for the Disabled groups get funds for immediate crisis relief

RDA launches emergency appeal to care for horses


April 6, 2020

Charity fundraising appeal will support disability horse riding groups in immediate crisis

‘Thank you for the memories’


February 25, 2020

RDA launches Dementia project to open up the sensory world of horses

Clare Balding visit to South Bucks RDA

December 19, 2019

Clare Balding’s new children’s book, ‘The Racehorse Who Learned To Dance’ is an inspirational tale about overcoming adversity and following your dreams.

Two RDA groups receive Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service

October 21, 2019

Two RDA groups in Yorkshire have been presented with the prestigious Queens Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS).

RDA Rider Makes Disability Power 100 List

October 21, 2019

RDA rider and volunteer, Colin Duthie, has been revealed as one of the 100 most influential disabled people in the UK, following his inclusion in the Shaw Trust Disability Power List 100 for 2019.

50th Celebration Week across the UK

October 21, 2019

Marking 50 years since the start of RDA, groups all over the UK have been holding special events as part of a week of celebrations.

RDA Coaches scoop top awards

October 21, 2019

Three RDA Coaches have received awards at the charity’s annual Coaching Conference.

RDA Awards celebrate 50 years of enriching lives through horses

October 9, 2019

Clare Balding, Alastair Stewart and racing driver Damon Hill were among the special guests...

Countryfile to Salute RDA in its 50th Anniversary Year

July 23, 2019

BBC Countryfile is to honour RDA in its 50th anniversary year with a programme dedicated to the charity and its work.

RDA Celebrates 50 Years at National Championships

June 17, 2019

Princess Anne to launch first National Training Centre

June 5, 2019

The first ever National Training Centre for RDA will be officially opened in Warwickshire on 12 June by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal.

Meet the ‘50 faces’ breaking down barriers

May 21, 2019

50th anniversary portrait project challenges attitudes and celebrates diversity in disability horse sport

HRH Princess Anne launches 50th anniversary tartan for RDA in Scotland

May 3, 2019

A new tartan has been produced by Lachcarron of Scotland in celebration of 50 years of Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) providing therapy through horses.

Riding for the Disabled Association to research the effectiveness of their brand

February 22, 2019

As Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) reaches its 50th year, RDA has decided to carry out research into the brand, to determine whether it fully reflects the organisation as it is today.