Written by: London International Horse Show

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.

Celebrating 55 years of enriching lives through horses, RDA stands as the premier UK-wide charity focused on harnessing the therapeutic power of horse-human interactions. Their mission is to ensure that all individuals with disabilities can experience the profound benefits of this unique bond. Currently, RDA positively impacts the lives of over 20,000 disabled children and adults through more than 400 centres and accredited riding schools across the country. Offering activities including riding, carriage driving, and non-ridden interactions, RDA provides therapy, fitness, and skill development, as well as opportunities for personal achievement and employability.

RDA is committed to inclusivity and diversity, welcoming participants with physical and learning disabilities, long-term health conditions and neurodiversity. Their work is recommended by physiotherapists and occupational therapists, and serves as the primary means of physical exercise for many participants. Regular riding sessions at RDA improve core strength, balance, and coordination, with participants reporting physical improvements.

Moreover, RDA plays a crucial role in addressing social isolation and loneliness. Through the supportive community at RDA, participants report increased enjoyment and confidence, and improved relationship-building abilities.

RDA’s vital work is sustained by donations, the dedication of over 13,000 volunteers and coaches, and their remarkable good-natured horses. The partnership with London International Horse Show will provide RDA with a strong presence before and at the Show. RDA will be hosting their own stand in the Shopping Village and making multiple appearances in the Live Zone where they will talk about the work of the charity. This partnership will raise awareness among the Show’s audience and promote RDA across the Show’s social media platforms. Visitors are encouraged to donate to RDA when purchasing tickets, with a portion of all ticket sales for the Thursday afternoon performance directly donated to the charity.

RDA CEO, Michael Bishop, expressed his delight at the partnership: “We are thrilled to be chosen as the official charity for such a prestigious event, enabling us to highlight RDA’s work and impact to the London International Horse Show audience. The demand for our services is huge, and the need has never been greater as more people are living with disabilities, long-term health conditions, and experiencing mental health challenges. RDA’s role in addressing the inequalities faced by disabled people in accessing activity and the natural environment is vital – enhancing physical and mental health, building skills, and improving employability. By directing the transformative power of horses to support those most disadvantaged, we aim to make an even greater impact. We are incredibly grateful to London International Horse Show for providing us with the opportunity to build our community of support and raise lifechanging funds.”

London International Horse Show Director, Simon Brooks-Ward, added: “London International Horse Show is delighted to name Riding for the Disabled Association as the official charity for the 2024 Show. We are proud to be able to contribute towards the charity’s great work, which, thanks to their remarkable volunteers and use of horsepower, enriches the lives of so many disabled children and adults across the UK.”

The London International Horse Show, will take place at ExCeL London, later this year. Running from 18th – 22nd December, London International is home to the FEI Jumping, Dressage and Driving World Cup Qualifiers in the UK, and a festive institution of equestrian competition, displays, shopping and sport that rounds off the year in style.

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