Volunteer
At Abingdon RDA, you can get involved in a variety of meaningful activities that support people with disabilities. Every experience is designed to make a positive impact.
How to get started
Your journey to help others
Could you spare a little time to make a big difference? At Abingdon RDA, our wonderful volunteers are at the heart of everything we do, helping children and adults with disabilities enjoy the many benefits of spending time with horses. Whether it's helping during riding lessons, caring for our lovely ponies or lending a hand with jobs around the yard, fundraising or helping with our social media, there's a role for everyone. You don't need any previous experience with horses – just enthusiasm, kindness and a willingness to work together as a team. We'll provide the training and support you need, and you'll become part of a friendly team where volunteering is rewarding, sociable and, above all, great fun!
What's in it for you?
Volunteering offers the chance to make a tangible difference, develop new skills, and connect with a supportive community, all while contributing to a meaningful cause.
- Learn new skills
- Make a difference
- Make new friends
- Be part of a team
- Enjoy the outdoors, and get fitter
- Boost your CV
See it first hand
A volunteer’s account
Curious about what volunteering at Abingdon RDA is really like? Hear first-hand from a volunteer, a parent of a rider and a coach. Discover the impact you can make, the friendships you’ll form and the rewarding experiences waiting for you at Abingdon RDA.
Safeguarding
Volunteers should normally be aged 14 or over.
All volunteers aged 16 and over must have Enhanced for Adults and Children DBS that is less than 3 years old. Under current legislation this has to be organised from within the group, unless the applicant has subscribed to the Update Service.
Volunteers will be asked to provide two references, unless under 16, then just one reference.
Volunteer FAQs
The support from volunteers is critical to our success. These are a few questions we have been asked and thought it would be useful to share with you.
Are there any requirements?
All volunteers must have an Enhanced DBS certificate that is less than 3 years old, organised through the group unless already subscribed to the Update Service.
Do I have to commit every week?
No, we are very flexible. We just ask you give the Yard Manager or Coach as much notice as you can of not attending so that they can reorganise if necessary.
Do I need to know about horses?
No prior experience with horses is necessary. Full training is given, and volunteers work alongside experienced coaches and handlers.
What do I actually do as a volunteer helper?
Helpers work alongside our coaches during sessions, leading horses, giving side support to riders, and helping with tacking up, grooming and yard duties. Full training is given before you start.
What is RDA?
RDA stands for Riding for the Disabled Association, a national charity that provides therapy, fun and achievement to people with disabilities through horse riding and carriage driving. All Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) groups are independent charities, separate from the RDA National Office (RDA UK), though they operate as part of a federated network.
When can I volunteer?
The yard is open 8.00 - 13.00 Monday to Friday.
Lessons are weekday mornings and evenings and Saturday morning.
Help is also needed on a Sunday to check on the horses and feed as needed.
Still have a question?
If you have any further questions or need more information, please feel free to get in touch. Contact us to learn more.
