June Devlin, Senior Business Development Coordinator, HSF Health Plan, presented a grant of £2,000 to Marie Brown, Chair, and Laura McConnachie, Senior Yard Worker, Glasgow Group of the Riding for the Disabled Association.
About Glasgow RDA
Glasgow Group of the Riding for the Disabled Association is an inclusive charity offering equine therapy to Glasgow’s disabled community. Glasgow RDA aims to offer the best experience of ridden and non-ridden equine-assisted therapy and activities to over 150 participants.
The centre was officially opened in 1988 by HRH the Princess Royal, President of the Riding for the Disabled Association. The purpose-built facilities include stabling for 20 horses, indoor and outdoor arenas, a tea bar, an office, a meeting room, and accommodation for the yard staff.
Hippotherapy Sessions
Weekly hippotherapy sessions are led by the physiotherapist and trained volunteers. The therapeutic aim is to develop stamina and core strength in young children who require assistance with everyday activities. They face daily challenges due to diagnosis of rare conditions, severe Cerebral Palsy, and recovery from Cancer treatment.
Hippotherapy riders are encouraged to lift their upper body by pushing up from the saddle pad when the horse is in motion. This develops muscle tone and trunk control bringing positive change to their independence. The hope is that what children remember from hippotherapy sessions at RDA Glasgow Group is the fun they have and the friends they make.
Riding for All
Glasgow RDA is the only riding centre in the City of Glasgow offering adapted horse-riding, stable management, and Tea with a Pony, helping disabled people of all ages experience physical and emotional rewards. Glasgow RDA provides 21 hours of RDA services each week and six hours of hippotherapy (physiotherapy on horseback).
The Grant
The Hospital Saturday Fund presented a grant of £2,000 to the Glasgow Group of the Riding for the Disabled Community. The grant will help fund hippotherapy sessions for twelve patients from Glasgow Children’s Hospital, with ponies, over a ten-week block.
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