RDA is a UK Charity that was first registered in 1969 when, largely through the influence of the Duchess of Norfolk, some 80 existing Groups came together to form one Association. Today RDA is run by some 15,000 volunteers in over 600 Member Groups who provide riding, vaulting and carriage driving to some 24,000 adults and young people with a wide range of disabilities.

The Charity’s aim is to benefit the health and well being of disabled children and adults of all ages at a level tailored to their individual abilities and objectives. The size of the individual groups varies widely from purpose built centres to a couple of ponies in a field. All are dedicated to the concept of teaching disabled people to ride.

The Member Groups are supported by RDA National; a small core staff based at the head office in Warwickshire. The Chief Executive, Ed Bracher, is responsible for the day to day running of the Charity. Ed has been Chief Executive at RDA since 2004. The National Organisation is the peak of the RDA Triangle and it communicates with the Regional Branches of RDA which filter the information down to the individual groups. The North West Regional Chair is Sheila Saner.

The President of RDA is Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, Princess Anne. Princess Anne is a great supporter of RDA, championing its work as a national charity and visiting groups as often as she can.

If you wish to find out more about the RDA, or find out where your nearest group is, contact:

THE RIDING FOR THE DISABLED ASSOCIATION

Lowlands Equestrian Centre

Old Warwick Road

Shrewley

CV35 7AX