Volunteer

Our incredible volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. With their dedication and passion, they help make life-changing experiences possible for thousands of participants every year.

Volunteer: Make a Lasting Impact

Become one of our helping hands

Volunteers are essential in every area of RDA life. From coaches to cake bakers, people support RDA in many different ways – and we always need more. Whatever skills you can bring, giving your time to your local RDA group will mean that more disabled people can enjoy the therapy and fun of horses.

Volunteering with RDA should be rewarding and fulfilling – and we want you to benefit from your time with us. Our award-winning program of volunteer training means it’s not just our participants who get the chance to learn and achieve their goals.

We welcome volunteers from the age of 12 and over, there is no upper age limit and we need a wide range of skills – not just with horses. RDA is a diverse organisation and we are at our best when we bring together people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.

We’re looking forward to welcoming you to the RDA family, so why not find your nearest group today.

Check with your local RDA centre as the minimum age may vary.

Celebrating Our Volunteers

Meet just a few of the outstanding volunteers who give their time to RDA.

Rachel poses with her award. Her award is in a red leather box with a gold medal inside.

Meet Rachel…

A young volunteer celebrated by the Federation of Irish Sport.

Matt and Glynis Dalley smile together as they volunteer at the RDA National Championships.

Meet Glynis and Matt

A mother and son volunteering team finding a way to give back.

An awards session held to give riders their well earned rosettes. Anne is on the right-hand side holding the grey mare, Pride. Volunteer Patty holds pony Suzie.

Meet Anne…

Read the day in the life of Anne from Greenwood RDA and what it means to her.

“RDA has played a huge part in my mental health recovery. Penniwells RDA gave me a purpose when I was struggling to find one in life. The comfort I get from animals is like no other. They don’t expect anything of you, you can be your authentic self no matter where your mental health is. To be able to volunteer and get everything ready for riders to benefit from the ponies makes me proud.”

Jenny, RDA Volunteer

I started volunteering at RDA about 3 years ago and from day one it was love at first sight, for the horses, the environment, for the people and the amazing difference I was making in people’s lives. Volunteering has turned my passion into a purpose. I have made so many friends all mad as I am about horses.”

Yohannes, RDA Volunteer

“I started with the RDA when I was asked by the local group if they could borrow my daughters pony who was very quiet and good with children. That was back in early 1990s. The first time I took him in and saw the enjoyment on the children’s faces, I was hooked! I have got such pleasure from watching the children laughing and improving every time they came in. It has been an absolute privilege to be involved with the RDA for so long.”

Bovelle, RDA Volunteer

Benefits for you

Learn new skills

Make a difference

Make new friends

Be part of a team

Enjoy the outdoors
(and keep fit!)

Boost your CV

Volunteering with RDA

read all about the benefits of volunteering with RDA

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Donate

Please give what you can

find out more

Volunteer laughing next to a piebald pony.

RDA UK Volunteer Vacancies

Join our network of National, Regional and County volunteers.