RDA (Woodbridge & District Group) welcomed Michael Bishop, Chief Executive of RDA UK, on 8th June for a special visit to formally open the charity’s new vaulting barn and meet the participants, volunteers, and coaches behind its life-changing work.

During his visit, Michael toured the Group’s expanding facilities and spent time with members of the volunteer team, learning more about the activities and support delivered throughout the year.

The highlight of the visit was the official opening of the Group’s new vaulting barn, a purpose-built space that will enable RDA Woodbridge to introduce and grow the discipline of vaulting – a dynamic sport combining gymnastics and dance on horseback.

Vaulting offers significant physical, cognitive, and social benefits for disabled children and adults, helping to improve balance, coordination, strength, confidence, and teamwork.

The new barn marks a major milestone in the Group’s development and supports its long-term ambition to expand therapeutic opportunities for the 165 disabled riders and drivers it supports each year.

Michael Bishop, Chief Executive of RDA UK, said:

“It is inspiring to see the dedication, innovation, and community spirit at RDA Woodbridge. The new vaulting barn will open up exciting opportunities for participants to develop new skills, grow in confidence, and experience the joy of movement in a completely different way. This Group is a great example of what RDA can achieve when volunteers, coaches, families, and supporters come together with a shared purpose.”

Sharon Bleese, Group Chair at RDA Woodbridge, said:

“We were honoured to welcome Michael Bishop and proud to showcase the incredible work our volunteers and coaches deliver every day. The vaulting barn represents a huge step forward for our Group and will allow us to offer even more inclusive, empowering activities for disabled children and adults across our community.”

The visit also provided an opportunity to celebrate the Group’s recent achievements, including the ongoing development of its Changing Lives Through Horses programme, the expansion of equine-assisted therapy activities, and its commitment to becoming a centre of excellence for inclusive equestrian activities in Suffolk.

Supporting a Summer of Inclusion

As RDA shines a spotlight on inclusion this summer, the new vaulting barn represents an exciting new opportunity for disabled children and adults to participate, develop new skills, and experience the many benefits of equestrian activity.

For many disabled children, summer can bring additional barriers to participation, with fewer accessible activities and opportunities to spend time outdoors, build confidence, and connect with others.

Facilities such as the new vaulting barn help create more inclusive opportunities throughout the year, ensuring that disabled children and adults can access activities that promote wellbeing, achievement, and belonging.

This summer, RDA is encouraging supporters to help make inclusion possible for more disabled children and families.

Join us in creating a Summer of Inclusion, so no disabled child is left in the shade.

Donate today and help more people experience the confidence, connection, and opportunities that RDA makes possible.