Riding for the Disabled (Woodbridge & District Group) based in Clopton is a charity that provides therapy through horses to local disabled people, all supported by a team of dedicated volunteers.
In an effort to protect both participants and volunteers from Corona Virus the group have decided to suspend all activities until further notice. Acting Group Chair, James Leggett says “Our clients are some of the most vulnerable in society, as are a number of our volunteers, so we have made the decision to close our doors until the situation with the Corona Virus improves. This comes at a big price for us, as without riders we have no income. Our loyal horses will still need feed, hay, to see a farrier and possibly even care from the vets. With no clear idea of when we will be able to start activities again it is difficult to know if we will have enough funds to support our horses until riding resumes.”
RDA (Woodbridge and District Group) currently has 10 horses and ponies who support up to 100 riders and carriage drivers. Research shows riding and driving with RDA is not only fun but delivers physical benefits, boosts confidence, improves communication skills and helps participants to build relationships.
James adds, “The impact this will have on some of our riders, who gain so much from attending our sessions, is huge – both physically and mentally. It has never been so clear just how much the time they spend with our horses helps. In a bid to ensure these sessions can resume as quickly as possible we need to keep our horses well cared for, in work and fit.”
“At this difficult time, we ask the local community to help support RDA (Woodbridge and District Group) by donating what you can to help keep the charity running. As little as £2 will feed a horse for the day, £5 will provide bedding for one horse for a week and £75 pays for a horse’s farrier fees”.
If you can support RDA (Woodbridge and District Group) please make a donation via uk.virginmoneygiving.com/donation-web/charity?charityId=1017362, or simply search ‘rda woodbridge’ and follow the link on their website.