about-us - rdawoodbridge

About Us

Welcome to our centre - a vibrant and supportive community where people of all abilities come together to share a love of horses and ponies.

Here, disabled and non-disabled participants build friendships, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging, all while enjoying the unique benefits of our equine activities.

We welcome adults from day centres in Ipswich, Woodbridge, Felixstowe, and Saxmundham, as well as children who visit with school groups or individually. Many are referred by doctors or physiotherapists, while others hear about us through personal recommendations from those who already benefit from our centre.

Our sessions run six days a week, made possible by our amazing team of dedicated volunteers.

What we offer our participants is far more than a leisure activity; it is an evidence-based, frontline therapeutic and educational service that transforms lives. Click here to read the RDA Impact Report.

Who We Support

Our participants include individuals living with:

• ADHD
• Autism
• Cerebral Palsy
• Deafness
• Down’s Syndrome
• Epilepsy
• Parkinson’s disease
• Vision impairment
• Learning difficulties

Riding and Carriage Driving

Riding provides physiotherapy on the move, helping participants improve their balance, posture, and coordination. It also builds self-confidence and offers the joy of connecting with our horses and volunteers.

For those who may not be able to ride, our carriage driving lessons are a fantastic alternative. This activity is particularly suited to wheelchair users and others with limited mobility. It delivers both physical and mental therapeutic benefits and offers a wonderful sense of freedom and independence.

Equestrian Vaulting

Vaulting helps improve physical skills such as balance, coordination, and body awareness. The movement of the horse aids in developing proprioception, which is especially beneficial for young people who struggle with body awareness or sensory processing challenges..

Non-mounted Activities

Non-mounted Equine Activity sessions can offer the opportunity of sensory interaction and close contact with a horse/pony and learning about their care. Ideally suited to those unable or unwilling to take part in a mounted sessions but who have expressed an interest in horse related activities.

We also offer tea with a pony for people living with dementia and other long-term conditions, creating meaningful experiences in a calm and supportive setting.

Horse Riding
Carriage Driving
Volunteering

How to find us