On a quiet stretch of Park Lane in Teddington, something quietly extraordinary is happening. From the outside, the RDA Park may seem like just another stable, but for those who have experienced it, it is so much more. It is a place of healing, of hope, and of connection.
The RDA Park is a riding school for disabled children and adults, run by the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA). It was established in 1972 and has been providing therapeutic horse riding sessions ever since. The RDA Park is a place where people of all ages and abilities can come together and experience the joy and freedom of horse riding.
The RDA Park is not just a riding school, it is a community. The staff and volunteers are dedicated and passionate about what they do, and it shows in the way they interact with the riders. They create a warm and welcoming environment where everyone feels included and valued. The riders are not just students, they are part of the RDA Park family.
One of the most remarkable things about the RDA Park is the way it transforms the lives of its riders. For many of them, riding a horse is something they never thought possible. But with the help of the dedicated staff and specially trained horses, they are able to experience the thrill of riding and the sense of accomplishment that comes with it.
The therapeutic benefits of horse riding are well-documented. It can improve balance, coordination, and muscle strength. But at the RDA Park, it goes beyond physical benefits. The riders also experience emotional and psychological benefits. The bond between horse and rider is a powerful one, and it can help boost confidence, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being.
One of the riders, 10-year-old Lily, has been coming to the RDA Park for two years. She has cerebral palsy and has limited mobility, but when she is on a horse, she is free. Her mother, Sarah, says that Lily’s weekly riding sessions have made a huge difference in her life. She has become more confident and her physical abilities have improved significantly. But most importantly, she has found a sense of belonging at the RDA Park.
The RDA Park is also a place of respite for the families of the riders. Caring for a disabled child or adult can be physically and emotionally draining, and the RDA Park offers a much-needed break for the families. They can relax and enjoy a cup of tea in the cozy café while their loved ones are having their riding sessions.
The RDA Park is not just about riding horses, it is also about building relationships. The riders form strong bonds with the horses, but they also develop friendships with each other. They support and encourage each other, and it is heartwarming to see the joy and laughter that fills the stables.
The RDA Park is a non-profit organization and relies heavily on donations and volunteers. The staff and volunteers work tirelessly to keep the stables running and to provide the best possible experience for the riders. They are always looking for more volunteers to join their team and help make a difference in the lives of the riders.
The RDA Park is a hidden gem in Teddington, and it is loved by all who know about it. It is a place where a cup of tea, a horse, and the company of kind and caring people can make all the difference. It is a place of hope, where disabilities are not seen, and abilities are celebrated.
If you are ever in Teddington, make sure to stop by the RDA Park and see for yourself the magic that happens there. And if you are looking for a way to give back to the community, consider volunteering at the RDA Park. It is a truly special place that will leave a lasting impact on your heart.
