Posted: 26th January 2016 | Back to news feed
Friars Hill Stables in North Yorkshire is the latest riding establishment to sign up for the Accessibility Mark scheme, to enable them to offer more riding opportunities to disabled people.
Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), in partnership with Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) participation programme launched the Accessibility Mark scheme to encourage those who do not already partake in equestrian activities or would not usually have the opportunity to do so, to experience the many benefits that riding can bring.
Friars Hill Stables is a family run business owned by Alison Brown and is situated on the gateway to the North Yorkshire Moors, in close proximity to Scarborough, York and Whitby, perfect surroundings for a countryside hack.
A Pony Club approved centre since 1999, Friars Hill has excellent facilities that boasts two indoor schools to be able to provide lessons all year round and in all weathers, with lessons undertaken by qualified British Horse Society instructors.
Friars Hill runs a regular RDA group so gaining the accreditation was a natural progression to expand on the sessions already on offer.
Said Alison: “Friars Hill caters for riders of all abilities, from complete beginners to the more advanced riders, including disabled riders in our RDA group. We decided to apply for the Accessibility Mark accreditation as we saw it as the next step to providing a wider variety of sessions, offering our clients more choice.
“The training day carried out by our Accessibility Mark Support Officer was incredibly helpful and informative, and the use of role play really helped me and my staff to understand some of the difficulties faced by disabled riders.”
“Riding can be enormously rewarding as well as a fun way to get fit, promoting a feeling of well-being both during and after riding. The social aspect of participating in any group activity is also a great way of boosting confidence,” added Alison.
Accessibility Mark status is awarded to a riding centre that has been approved by RDA following training and assessment. The close link with the RDA means that they offer continuous support to the establishment to ensure they provide you with a first class service and an experience that aims to be hugely beneficial. There are currently 23 Accessibility Mark approved centres across the country.
To find your nearest RDA Group or Accessibility Mark centre click here: www.equestrianindex.com/equestrian-centres/riding-for-the-disabled-groups
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