Posted: 7th November 2016 | Back to news feed
Saddles Riding Centre based in Bexley, Kent has become the latest riding centre to gain Accessibility Mark accreditation.
The nationally recognised seal of approval will enable them to open their doors 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.
Yard Manager Carly Purves found out about the scheme through the RDA website when she investigated the possibility of Saddles Riding Centre becoming an RDA centre. The centre prides itself on its wide range of riding opportunities offering everything from group lessons in the arena, beach rides and Polocrosse to pony and trap rides. Its unique approach is evident in the sessions available to ensure inclusivity for everyone, even including a Gentleman’s Evening for male riders.
With this in mind it was a natural next step to extend their services to disabled riders, and the compulsory training that is part of the assessment process provides staff with confidence that they can teach riders of all abilities to a high standard.
Said Carly: “At Saddles Riding Centre we want as many people as possible to come and enjoy riding and the benefits that being around horses can bring to people’s lives.
“My vision for the future is to move into horse therapy as I really believe in the positive influence that horses can have on mental well-being and Accessibility Mark is hopefully just the start.”
There are different Accessibility Mark options available from dedicated group, private and semi-private lessons to a combination of riding and stable management sessions.
For anyone just looking to spend time with the horses but doesn’t think riding is suitable for them, the centre has devised a stable management only session, where clients will get to muck out, groom and learn about general care.
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 37 Accessibility Mark approved centres across the country.
For more information about Saddles Riding Centre visit www.saddlesridingcentre.co.uk
To find your nearest RDA Group visit www.equestrianindex.com/services/equestrian-centres/riding-for-the-disabled-groups or Accessibility Mark centre visit www.rda.org.uk.
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