I am writing in my capacity as Chair of the Steering Group to establish a Human Equine Interaction Register (HEIR) for which the need was discussed at a meeting of Horses in Education and Therapy International (HETI) back in 2019. I am delighted to say that now things are returning to some recognition of normal, we have been able to make some progress towards making the register a reality.

The aim of the register is to bring together all people involved in the field of human equine interaction to ensure high quality service provision and create a greater awareness of their work. It was agreed that this was needed to offer a greater level of protection and safety for all those involved in the sector whether that be the providers, commissioners, service users or horses.

Greater transparency of attainment of minimum standards in such areas as safeguarding, first aid, equine welfare and insurance will be the first base for self-registration and there will follow an opportunity to demonstrate skills, experience and knowledge as applicable. This is so that funders and service users will be able to make informed choices about the service being offered at all levels of practice. It is not intended that the register will be an accrediting body as that is already in place with the different professions involved.

Over the coming weeks we will be engaging with the sector to seek your views about the proposals. The register will be created with and not to commissioners, practitioners and service users for mutual benefit. If all goes to plan, we hope to open an online survey on Monday 27th September for 5 weeks for people to respond to the proposals and give feedback about how the register will work in practice.

However, we want to make sure that everyone has sufficient information to make an informed response so we have arranged a series of virtual and physical briefing session to explain the plans in more detail and offer an opportunity for questions.

If you would like to attend, please register for any of the following so that we can plan accordingly and in particular, make sure that the face to face event is Covid safe.

Wednesday 6^th October 2.30-4pm Online Webinar

Register to attend here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/human-equine-interaction-register-webinar-1-tickets-170493755412

Tuesday 12^th October at 6.30pm – 8pm Online webinar

Register to attend here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/human-equine-interaction-register-webinar-2-evening-option-tickets-170497117468

Friday 15^th October 11am – 3pm at RDA HQ, Warwickshire

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/human-equine-interaction-register-consultation-event-tickets-170496152582

If you wish to email us with a question at any time we can be contacted at heiruk@hetifoundation.org and there is more information on the website at UK National Register – HEIR | HETI Federation

We will be providing regular updates on the HEIR Facebook page so please like, follow and share to stay in touch Human Equine Interaction Register UK – Home | Facebook

Best wishes,

Ed Bracher

Being part of the inaugural Health for Horses Relay was a fantastic way to celebrate our beloved horses, acknowledge how they’ve helped us through the past year and the impact they have on our mental health.  Getting involved offered our participants and volunteers a new and exciting experience, whilst supporting H4H’s other initiatives, to promote riding road safety and raise funds for 7 wonderful equine charities (including RDA).  

We decided to hold our first ever Countryside Challenge as the main event and contacted H4H organiser Sophie Gifford. She opened her black book of contacts and very soon we had Naylors sponsoring the Countryside Challenge prizes, BETA’s mechanical horse “RoboCob”, goodie bags and even Greater Manchester Mounted Police were on board!

Our community really came together to support us; Tesco provided refreshments, volunteers and families baked delicious cakes, the village pub provided sandwiches, Pony Club loaned us equipment and a reporter came from the paper to raise awareness of H4H and RDA.  A local Championship level circuit judge kindly volunteered to judge riders and present prizes. 

Sheila Saner, Greater Manchester County Chair was a fantastic support and supervised riders on the mechanical horse as we didn’t have any experience of this.  The majority of our riders had never experienced a canter but all of them cantered on RoboCob and the smiles were HUGE!  With Sheila’s guidance our coaching team could see the advantages of using a simulator alongside real ponies and we’re now exploring whether buying our own is an option. 

After two weeks of glorious weather, typically the heavens opened and our Countryside Challenge in the outdoor arena was a very soggy one but the whole place was buzzing! Having multiple ‘zones’ with things to do, see and eat resulted in a brilliant day for everyone and we raised £545 for Health for Horses. 

We obviously had to adapt our plans to meet covid regulations with staggered arrival times etc but this took nothing away from the day. We’d highly recommend it to other groups and if anyone wants to ask us anything we’d be delighted to help! 

Contact Alison Pickering at: rdasaddleworth@gmail.com 

30-minute webinar

Tonight: 6 May, 7pm, Buying Equines

RDA Honorary Vet Nick Hart, Equine Coordinator at RDA UK Emma Bayliss and Sarah Healing of Penniwells RDA discuss the dos and don’ts of equine purchase.

Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rB17oRf9RIWxM9R2vMHrFw  

Next Thursday, 13 May, A week off!

Since I’m at least a day behind with everything this week, there is no webinar planned for next week. You can have the evening off! We’ll be back the following week.

Stella Hancock Award – a note from National Carriage Driving Lead, Eileen Cornish

Congratulations to Shifford Driving Group in the South Region for being awarded the Stella Hancock Award of £150 towards the training of a new coach for their group. I look forward to her joining the CD Coach ranks in the not-too-distant future once her assessment is completed.

National Office phones: disruption 13 May

You may know we’ve been struggling a bit with the phone system we installed that is supposed to help staff answer calls from home. It has proved a bit unreliable and we are trying a new system, which will be installed next week, 13 May. This may mean the phones are out of action for part or all of that day. I suggest you email us instead, either direct to the person you need, or to info@rda.org.uk and your message will be forwarded to the right person.

Opportunity to purchase horses

Thanks to everyone who responded to Tuesday’s email (groups in England, Wales and Scotland) about the horses for sale. We are working with the owner for the rest of this week and next and will update you as soon as there is any news.

30-minute webinar

Tonight: 7pm, RDA Insurance Explained

Richard Doubleday, Executive Chairman of Howdens Insurance Brokers discusses the RDA Insurance. Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_vAuxrSipS36DnO_yKbHayA

Next Thursday, 6 May, Buying Equines

RDA Honorary Vet Nick Hart and Emma Baylis discuss the dos and don’ts of equine purchase. A group with recent experience of buying RDA horses will also share their advice.

Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rB17oRf9RIWxM9R2vMHrFw  

Activity Levels survey

In order to help us understand activity levels within groups at the moment, we are issuing a survey to all signed-off groups by the end of this week. I apologise that this means some of you will hear from me again!

‘Tea With a Pony’ Conference 19 May

As part of The Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Action Week #DAW2021, RDA will be hosting a Zoom conference on Wednesday 19 May to mark the launch of Tea with a Pony.  This conference will focus on the benefits of equine experiences for people living with Dementia, and also how RDA are using the Dementia Friends initiative. Panellists include: Ally Rood (MRes in Horses for Dementia), Lorna Kook (Retired Occupational Therapist), Claire Jenkins (RDA UK Trustee) and Meg Hardman (Chair, Medical Equestrian Association and RDA Honorary Medic)

Register for the conference at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_eXHBC1UiQnmNBgVPM6zNSg

Social media boycott this weekend

Along with other British Equestrian member bodies we will be uniting with the football community and other sports for a social media boycott from 3pm on Friday 30 April to 11:59pm on Monday 3 May in support of bringing an end to online abuse and hate. You can read British Equestrian’s statement on this here: www.britishequestrian.org.uk/news/british-equestrian-backs-social-media-boycott-this-weekend

We know that many groups use social media as a key part of their operational communication, so may not feel able to take part in a total boycott, but your support for this initiative is appreciated.

We will be posting a final statement ahead of the boycott about 2pm tomorrow. Please feel free to share/use that message as you wish on your own RDA group channels #EnoughIsEnough #DrawTheLine

Introductory Offer to join Equestrian Employers Association

The Equestrian Employers Association provides support, resources and advice to employers in the equestrian industry. They provide a number of templates that you can use for your employment needs if you employ staff, such as a Contract Creator, Staff Handbook Creator, Health and Safety toolkit and Code of Good Employment as well as information on pensions and payroll to help you to be a compliant and Good Employer. They also have an employment advice helpline.  In addition, they have useful information and templates for those who need to have a Riding Establishments Licence.  They are offering a special introductory rate to RDA groups signing up for the first time of £37.50 per year compared to the usual £49.50. Please note this discount does not apply if you are already a member and please do not pass this on as this offer does not apply to anyone outside of RDA or with Accessibility Mark accreditation. More details here: https://equestrianemployers.org.uk/homeRDA

Horsefest cancellation

The organisers of Horsefest have sadly had to make the difficult decision to cancel the event this year, due to ongoing uncertainties surrounding COVID restrictions.

If you have tickets (bought or won), please see the following message from their Facebook page (www.facebook.com/HorseFestuk):  “We would like to encourage anybody who has purchased tickets or accommodation for this year’s event to roll them over and come party with us in 2022. For anyone who would prefer a refund, this can be arranged by logging onto their TicketSellers account (details are on the email sent to ticket holders). Those who have won tickets – these will transfer to next year’s HorseFest automatically.”

We have been speaking with an establishment that is selling a significant number of horses and ponies that could be suitable for RDA.  There is a possibility, if we are able to move fairly quickly, that we could (collectively) purchase a significant number of these horses and give them a good and meaningful life with RDA.  I should stress, though, at this stage we are exploring this and there is no firm agreement.

Initially, we just need to be able to gauge demand. If you are actively looking for new equines for your group (ie, you know what you need and have an idea of your budget etc), we have a very quick online form for you to fill in to register your interest. If you are looking for more than one, please complete the form as many times as necessary.

Clearly, there will be more stages to this but for now your initial show of (serious) interest is all we need. If you can complete the form as soon as possible that would be great. Certainly by the end of 28 April.

Please follow the link to the online form here www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/RDAequines

Here’s a lovely thing to kick off with: Tonight’s The One Show (7pm, BBC One), features volunteer Jane Dowding of Green Cottage RDA in Dorset receiving a ‘One Big Thank You’ in celebration and recognition of everything she does to support the group. Congratulations Jane, so well deserved. 

The Swiss Cheese model

As more people are vaccinated, and Lateral Flow Testing becomes more routine, we are understandably getting questions about whether this means we can change our guidance (specifically in the area of sidewalkers), and whether other precautions are still necessary.

The problem is that no single measure to prevent the spread of Coronavirus is 100% effective – including vaccines – and it is vital that, for now, we continue to follow social distancing, good hand hygiene and use face coverings where appropriate, even if people are vaccinated or have tested negative. Rest assured, our working party is reviewing our guidance regularly and everyone involved is committed to a return to RDA activities for all riders and drivers as soon as possible.

The ‘Swiss Cheese’ model explains the need for multiple safety measures in quite a neat way if you are interested:  www.bbc.co.uk/news/resources/idt-40ac92b1-1750-4e86-9936-2cda6b0acb3f 

30-minute webinar

Tonight: 7pm, Physiotherapy advice

Regional Physio for Grampian & Highland Valerie Cooper will advise on helping participants return to activity.

Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_kjcf1rn5Q1CtB_gyKGNkUQ

Next Thursday, 29 April, RDA Insurance explained

Richard Doubleday, Executive Chairman of Howdens Insurance Brokers discusses the RDA Insurance. Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_vAuxrSipS36DnO_yKbHayA

Competition rulebook

If you are having difficulty using the Rulebook inserts we produced for this year, full copies of the Rulebook and the inserts (in A4 and A5) are available here: myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/national-championships/ .

For 2022, the Rulebook will be re-designed and full copies will be printed.

British Equestrian Launches Youth Development & Performance Pathway Handbook

British Equestrian has launched the first edition of its Youth Development & Performance Pathway Handbook, which focuses on the Olympic and Paralympic disciplines of dressage, para dressage, eventing and showjumping.

The handbook outlines the various stages that an aspiring rider might go through as they progress through their chosen discipline, starting at entry level and progressing through the various development stages, up to being an athlete at the upper levels of the World Class Programme.

The digital e-book is available to view here:  www.britishequestrian.org.uk/competitors/youth-development-performance-pathway-handbook

Congratulations to Wellow Group for their non-Royal visit on Tuesday! Despite the (completely understandable) absence of The Princess Royal, the group nevertheless put on a fantastic event for the local Lieutenancy and selected guests. A timely reminder that things will get better and there are still good times to be had.

Remembering The Duke Of Edinburgh

RDA Chief Executive, Ed Bracher has sent a message of condolence on behalf of RDA to The Palace following the death of The Duke of Edinburgh. Prince Philip was known to many within RDA, especially among our driving community, so I’m sure some groups will be planning to mark his passing in their own way.

With that in mind, there are two announcements below about how to pay your respects if you wish, one from British Equestrian and then from the organisers of Windsor Horse Show.  

Guidance from British Equestrian

The Royal Ceremonial Funeral of His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh will be held on 17 April at 15.00 in St. George’s Chapel, Windsor, and British Equestrian is aware that a large number in the equestrian community will wish to pay their respects. With a busy weekend of competition ahead and many planning to enjoy  activities with their horses, we wanted to offer guidance on paying respects.

Many sporting fixtures, racing included, are making arrangements for a period of respect during the funeral service of The Duke of Edinburgh between 14.45 and 16.15 on Saturday. We leave it to the organiser’s discretion on whether to facilitate any such break in their own schedule. Organisers may also wish to consider allowing/requesting riders to wear black armbands on Saturday.

However, we would request that all events/venues make provision in their timetable to observe the national one minute silence at 15.00 with a halt in any activity, ensuring enough time for action to stop sufficiently to allow a full minute of reflection and respect.

Should venues wish to pay their respects by half-masting flags, please follow the guidance issued by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

The Cabinet Office has also issued guidance on the Period of National Mourning.

Organisers of Windsor Horse Show: The Horse World Remembers
The Horse World Remembers – an Equestrian Tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh will be coordinated by Royal Windsor Horse Show, of which he was an active President for 30 years. During a time when we may not be able to pay tribute in person, The Horse World Remembers will provide a way to celebrate and commemorate the life of a remarkable man – available to all online who wish to pay their respects.

At the heart of The Horse World Remembers is an online Book of Condolence, which will form the platform for our collective memories and tributes. Messages from organisations and individuals, professionals and amateurs alike are all welcome. Please feel free to write whatever comes to your mind. It could be personal, it could be reflective, it could be joyous or it could be a message to His Royal Highness to thank him for his contribution to the horse world. Your message could be anonymous or not, it is up to you – photographs, stories, condolences and thoughts are all welcome. We also encourage you to share this opportunity with your society members and friends in the equestrian community.  The Book of Condolence can be found at www.horseworldremembers.com

We will also be sharing stories across social media (Instagram, Twitter and Facebook) using #HorseWorldRemembers.

During the 2021 Royal Windsor Horse Show (1^st to 4^th July) the entries to the Book of Condolence will be on display making up a Puissance Wall which will be wrapped in the contributions. The Wall will become a central feature for people to remember The Duke of Edinburgh, and his amazing equestrian achievements. The entries will also be bound into a book for presentation to Her Majesty The Queen.

The online Book of Condolence will stay active for four weeks.

Advice and guidance from National Office

Please remember to refer to MyRDA for the latest local guidance about returning to RDA activities. We will now only be issuing specific guidance in these weekly emails if there is a tightening of restrictions or a significant change that needs addressing.

Do also remind your volunteers about the difference between our main website www.rda.org.uk (our public-facing website) and www.MyRDA.org.uk (for volunteer support, where all the COVID information lives). We’ve had a few frustrated volunteers unable to find the restart information as they are looking at the wrong website.

30-minute webinar

Tonight, 7pm, (just for groups and RDA UK volunteers in Scotland): The Community & Third Sector Recovery Programme

The Community & Third Sector Recovery Programme aims to support charities, community groups, social enterprises and voluntary organisations in Scotland that are supporting people and communities through the shift from lockdown to recovery. The programme is now open and grants of up to £75,000 are available.  To access  funding your organisation must operate primarily in Scotland. This  webinar is specifically for RDA groups in Scotland and will be chaired by Lynda Whittaker, RDA Trustee  who has experience of the programme. Joined by groups whom have applied to the programme this is an opportunity to find out more about the fund and how you can access the funding.

Register at https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_WPKb5jr3RN-d50Cs8RiHmA

Next week: 22 April, Physiotherapy advice

Advice on restarting participants. Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_kjcf1rn5Q1CtB_gyKGNkUQ

Horses for Health Relay to benefit RDA

We are one of seven equine charities benefiting from a fundraising event this summer called ‘The Great Horses for Health Relay’. The event is already gaining huge interest and registrations among the equine community. I know some RDA people are already planning to take part, and it might be a fun thing for some groups to do with their participants too.

The organisers have divided the UK into 11 regions over 5 months with participants given two weeks to choose their own route in their local area, which is then recorded on the relay map.  The relay ‘baton’ will be passed onto the next participating region at a pre-arranged Covid-safe event. The relay starts in Yorkshire 2 May and is set to end in Cornwall around 2 October.

Find out more here: www.horses4health.co.uk/ or on their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/1399636837047873

Sport England and #ClubMatters say thank you to volunteers

Sport England and #ClubMatters have joined forces to produce a short video presented by Baroness Tani Grey-Thompson acknowledging the vital role of volunteers throughout the pandemic. Lots of lovely messages and I spy RDA in there too! www.facebook.com/sportengland/videos/470423321068790

Equine Flu Awareness Week

This week is ‘Keeping Britain’s Horses Healthy Equine Flu Awareness Week’. We are taking this opportunity to say thank you to our partners MSD, Zoetis and Boehringer Ingelheim, who have supported our groups with free vaccinations for many years. This vaccine programme has enabled us to have 100% vaccine acceptance rate for horses competing at our National Championships during the Equine Flu outbreak in 2019. It also allows our groups to be able to operate out of some of the larger equestrian centres where either annual or six monthly vaccination is required.

You can find out more about Equine Flu Awareness Week on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/KeepingHorsesHealthy

30-minute webinar

Tonight, 7pm, COVID-19 the medical perspective

Dr Megan Hardman, Chair of the Medical Equestrian Association, discusses a range of topics including Vaccines and Lateral Flow Testing and what they mean for RDA.

Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_NrPpA5-YShacUqgu2lISWw

Next week’s webinar (15 April) is just for groups in Scotland: The Community & Third Sector Recovery Programme. Register at https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_WPKb5jr3RN-d50Cs8RiHmA

New participant form updated

The new participant form has been updated, and can be found here:

myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/new-participants/new-participants/ 

The main elements that have been updated are:

• It is now called ‘Participant’ application form, rather than ‘rider, vaulter and driver’ to encompass those joining RDA who are taking part in other non-ridden/driven activities
• Personal information and preferences – using more inclusive language
• Additional information on conditions/disabilities – the questions are clearer and use more positive language

Any questions to Marisa at marisa@rda.org.uk

Exclusive film trailer for ‘Spirit Untamed’

Here’s something fun for animated movie fans. The director of the new Dreamworks film, Spirit Untamed, has recorded a special message for RDA, along with the launch of the trailer for the film. Take a look here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZD0r2YtI2h8

This week brings our Road to Restart programme to a close with the theme of ‘Funding’ (details below). Can I just say a huge thank you for the positive response we have had from so many of you. I know not all groups are doing everything at the same pace, and many are facing a frustrating wait before riders and drivers can come back, but the planning and preparations are happening and that has been great to see.

Note to groups in England: Confused by the ‘indoor outdoor’ arena question? Updated, clear guidance about RDA sessions here myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/getting-started-after-lockdown/rules-for-england/

Useful information at MyRDA.org.uk

Our final theme is ‘Funding’, ensuring your group trustees have sufficient confidence in the group’s fundraising capability in order to reopen. The Group Fundraising Support pages of MyRDA contain templates, top tips, ‘how to’ guides and more to help you open up new funding streams and make the most of existing supporters. myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/group-fundraising-events/

30-minute webinar: Thursday 1 April 7pm, Inspirational Fundraising: some case studies

As we all know, raising money is fundamental to everything we do at RDA and this week we will meet some of RDA’s inspirational fundraisers who have encouraged individuals, communities, organisations and others to donate. Please join us if you can. 

Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_27p3ZusnR_K9pUg3VR281w  

Next week’s 30-minute webinar: Thursday 8 April 7pm, COVID-19 the medical perspective

Dr Megan Hardman, Chair of the Medical Equestrian Association, discusses a range of topics including Vaccines and Lateral Flow Testing and what they mean for RDA.

Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_NrPpA5-YShacUqgu2lISWw

After the Road to Restart

While our 5 week restart programme may be coming to an end, we know the work continues. All the resources created and compiled for this project will continue to be available as and when you need them. MyRDA will be kept up to date in line with UK and devolved government changes.

Thursday 30-minute webinars will continue, and we will always record them. They are generally available to view on the MyRDA YouTube Channel by the end of the following day. www.youtube.com/channel/UCrI8v8J0WoEXNCu25ktkm0Q . If you have any suggestions for topics you would like us to cover in the coming weeks and months, please let me know.

Other news in brief

• Showjumping Coach Training: 31 March, 4-5:30pm. Mike Butcher will be delivering training for coaches who would like to know how to train up to levels 3 and 4. Please register at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAqf-uhqTwvE91_IHeSr8phmlOnJ8FJPgr3
• A reminder that the Annual Health Check and Pre-Purchase Examination Policy for equines have come into effect from 1 January 2021. More at: myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/policies/
• Following the recent outbreak of EHV, British Equestrian have produced an Equine Health Status Declaration Form, which must be completed for any horse attending a show, training or activity run under the affiliation and rules of any British Equestrian member body (of which RDA is one) between 29 March and 12 April 2021. Details and form at: myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/horses-and-rda/
• There is a new Facebook group called RDA Equine. It is a closed group for ‘horse wanted’ or ‘for sale’ adverts only.
• All groups who own and loan their own RDA equines will have received an email with a link to an online survey called Project Equine. The survey is designed to help us understand the issues groups face in finding suitable equines. If you need the link email ebayliss@rda.org.uk.
• 15% off ticket offer for Horsefest by joining HorseTribe. Details at https://horsefest.org/register/free/

This week we are focussing on ‘Participants & Partners’, making sure our riders and drivers feel confident about returning to RDA activities, and helping to prepare partner organisations (such as schools) for bringing clients back when the time is right.

Useful information at MyRDA.org.uk

The participant assessment tool, example rider induction briefing, participant consent form and (with thanks to Tara Munro of Gordon RDA), a certificate for riders can all be found under ‘Volunteers & Participants’ at myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/getting-started-after-lockdown/are-you-ready-to-restart/

Here you will also find guidance on working with schools and information for schools about RDA activities.

Helpful films on our MyRDA YouTube Channel

There is a range of videos and presentations relevant to this week on our YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrI8v8J0WoEXNCu25ktkm0Q

These include:

• Rider Interview – An interview with Jean Reid, Participant Rep at Grampian Highland, about her experiences and insight having returned to riding with Moray RDA in the Autumn. This also includes the video Moray created to help familiarise riders with the ‘new normal’.
• Communication with riders – Lynne Munro’s section in the ‘Road to Restart: Coaching’ webinar contains great information about the rider application form, COVID consent form and completing a rider assessment (about 6:40 minutes in)

30-minute webinar: Thursday 25 March 7pm, Working with schools

Sandra O’Connell of Ashmount School in Leicestershire will give advice and guidance about encouraging schools to bring pupils back to RDA activities.

Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_spe8KqFORByjI4g78rDkcQ

Other news in brief

• Endurance – The RDA Endurance League will restart on 1 April. This will run for twelve months to give more groups the chance to log some miles. Participants can also use a mechanical horse (though they still need to take a real horse’s heart rate!). Carriage Driving groups can add Endurance to their activities. Application form and more info at https://myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/endurance/

I hope you all enjoyed Her Royal Highness’ video message. Many of you have commented on how lucky we are to have such an informed and understanding President, and I am sure she will have inspired a few groups to think about restarting. If you haven’t seen it yet, it is still available at www.youtube.com/channel/UCrI8v8J0WoEXNCu25ktkm0Q

This week’s theme is all about ‘Equine Readiness’, making sure our RDA horses and ponies are as ready for restart as the rest of us.

Equine restart information at MyRDA.org.uk

The COVID Equine Assessment form is a useful checklist for reintroducing horses into RDA work and can be found here: myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/horses-and-rda/ . Also here you will find details of our free vaccine scheme for RDA horses and ponies who ‘contribute a significant amount of their time to RDA activities’, and details of the Regional Vets and Regional Equine Advisors who are on hand to help.  

The Road to Restart page (myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/getting-started-after-lockdown/) includes information on Hippotherapy.

Helpful films on our MyRDA YouTube Channel

There is a range of videos and presentations relevant to this week on our YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrI8v8J0WoEXNCu25ktkm0Q

These include:

• Getting Horses used to PPE
• Training Equines

30-minute webinar: Thursday 18 March 7pm, Road to Restart, All about Horses

Doug Smith, Equine Lead, will look at the resources available to help groups with reintroducing RDA horses and ponies. Bethan Randles, National Training Centre Manager will offer advice about communicating with riding schools about restarting sessions, and Eileen Cornish, our new Carriage Driving Lead, will look at reintroducing horses and ponies to driving.

Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_WcbFLEO3QoiGgvqssOO2LQ

Other news in brief

• EHV Outbreak – We are monitoring the EHV situation and there is information from Nick Hart, RDA Honorary Vet here: myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/horses-and-rda/  . If you are concerned about an equine’s immediate health please consult your vet. For general advice your Regional Vet is a good point of contact. More useful advice on equine health and biosecurity here: www.msd-animal-health-hub.co.uk/Healthy-Horses
• Business awards & grants – Do check your local council’s website for Business Awards and Grants. Although many of the current schemes are for business rates payers, we have recently heard about one or two RDA groups that have been successful in gaining discretionary awards, despite not paying business rates.  Many of the schemes close to new applicants at the end of March.
• Royal visits – Regional Chairs have been sent the bid forms for royal visits, so do ask if you have not received one yet and would like to put a bid in. Bids should be submitted by 29 March to Amanda Perkins (aperkins@rda.org.uk ). This is for visits between 1 September 2021 and 31 January 2022.
• CP Sport 20^th Anniversary Party – Everyone is invited to this free celebratory event on Saturday 27 March 7pm. Details and booking here: https://cpsport.azolve.com/workbench/public/events?ref=46898EA1DFD439C968200F80F199C3524B61A246

A message from our President

In support of the ‘Road to restart’, RDA President, Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal has recorded a special message for groups. Please watch and share with your RDA community using this link: https://youtu.be/RnwUUDrhWOo

Step by step information at MyRDA.org.uk

We have created a ‘Road to Restart’ page at myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/getting-started-after-lockdown/. This contains many of our existing resources, and some new ones, ordered step-by-step to make it easier for you to know what to do when.

Helpful films on our MyRDA YouTube Channel

There is a range of new videos and presentations relevant to this week on our YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrI8v8J0WoEXNCu25ktkm0Q

These include:

• Road to Restart – a 20-minute step-by-step narrated presentation about how to restart
• Getting your site ready – a visit to the National Training Centre to see how they are using signage and hygiene stations to prepare for restart

During this week we will also be adding presentations about:

• How to complete a COVID-19 risk assessment
• How to complete a trustee checklist

30-minute webinar: Thursday 11 March 7pm, Things to consider before restarting

Sarah Healing (Greater London, Regional Coach) and Lynne Munro (West Mercia, Regional Coach and Physio) will be chatting about the most important things for group coaches to consider before inviting participants back – and ensuring a safe environment for the whole team.

Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_wwHWqRPLSICOEjvDsxBa7g

Other news in brief

• New Carriage Driving Lead: Eileen Cornish has been appointed as the new National Lead for Carriage Driving. Eileen brings a wealth of carriage driving experience and knowledge and I am sure you will join me in welcoming her to this role. 
• Virtual National Championships: Regional Chairs and Regional Qualifier Organisers have been briefed on the plans for this event, and will be in touch with you in due course about when and how Regional Qualifiers will be held (by video entry). In the meantime, you can find the schedule and other information for the September Virtual National Championships at myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/national-championships/ . There is a training video for Countryside Challenge and a ‘how to film your competition entry’ video on YouTube here: www.youtube.com/channel/UCrI8v8J0WoEXNCu25ktkm0Q
• D of E Groups: Please complete the annual survey for D of E by Monday 29th March surveymonkey.co.uk/r/dofesurvey
• Regional Equine Advisors & Vets: Please remember about the equine welfare support available to your group from your regional team, via your Regional Equine Advisor and Regional Vet.

Please find here the first of your new Monday emails, as we launch our 5-week ‘Road to Restart’ programme. This week’s theme is ‘Trustee Confidence’.

This week, we want to shine a light on the vital role Group Trustees play in helping groups to restart after lockdown. Even if your group can’t welcome riders or drivers back immediately, trustees at all groups can make huge progress towards reopening by planning and preparing ahead of time.

Please remember to circulate these Monday group emails to your whole group. If you are the designated group contact, sharing information from RDA UK is a key part of your role, so please help everyone to be informed and up to date.

Tuesday 2 March 1pm – lunchtime webinar with Ed Bracher ‘Trustees: Leading Groups out of Lockdown ’

This Tuesday lunchtime, RDA UK Chief Executive Ed Bracher will be presenting a webinar looking at the role of group trustees in preparing groups to restart. With our research showing that supportive trustees are the single most important factor in helping groups to get going, Ed will highlight how trustees can lead their groups out of lockdown.

Registration at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1AxkAds2Rv-itPkuvlXQTw

We would like to prioritise Group Trustees attending this session. If registration is full, the talk will be available by the following morning at our YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/channel/UCrI8v8J0WoEXNCu25ktkm0Q .

Thursday 4 March, 30-minute webinar, 7pm – ‘Road to Restart: Trustees in Conversation’

This Thursday’s ’30-minute webinar’ features Barbara Manson (Regional Chair for Grampian & Highland, Group Trustee at Gordon RDA) and Pauline Roestenburg (Regional Chair for South East, Group Chair at Chalkdown RDA). Pauline and Barbara will help Group Trustees feel more confident about planning for restart, drawing on their own experiences both at their groups and within their regions.

Registration at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-qXOqf0vQ16fy9lXXWSH8A  

Unsure how to get your trustees together on Zoom?

RDA YouTube recorded webinar: ‘Zoom, The Basics’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Qd2A0EpPfc&feature=youtu.be 

This step-by-step guide from Director of Operations Anna Hall will help support any trustees who have yet to embrace the dreaded Zoom meeting!

Talk to other Group Trustees

Contact your Regional Chair or Marisa at RDA National Office (marisa@rda.org.uk) to be put in touch with a group that has been signed off for restart. It could be you want inspiration from a group local to you, or you want to find one in a similar situation to find out how they tackled specific challenges – either way, there is plenty of support and expertise out there to help your Trustees.

Where to get help

Contact your County or Regional Chair, or call the RDA Group Support Team at National Office on 01926 492915 or groupsupport@rda.org.uk

Other news in brief

• The Carriage Driving Magazine Awards are on 14 March from 7pm at carriagedrivingawards.co.uk/2020

UK Government announcement

The announcement from Boris Johnson yesterday gives a clear commitment to the easing of restrictions, with two key dates of interest to RDA.

From 8 March, schools will be reopening in England. While this does not relate to RDA activity specifically, groups in England who are already signed off to restart might choose to take this opportunity to open using the exemption for outdoor organised disability sport, if they have not already done so. The details of this can be found on MyRDA at myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/getting-started-after-lockdown/rules-for-england/

29 March signals a return to outdoor organised sport in England. Where this is formally organised, for example through RDA, these will not be subject to the gatherings limits, but should be compliant with guidance issued by national governing bodies. For us, this is a limit of 30 people.

From this date or soon after we would hope that all signed off groups in England will choose to reopen in some form, and that other groups will actively prepare to do so.

Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland

From last Monday, some school years returned in Scotland and Wales but the restrictions around other aspects of life, including impact on RDA sessions, has not currently changed since the beginning of the year.

An announcement today from Nicola Sturgeon sets out a plan for more school years to return from 15 March at the earliest with a possibility of opening up non-contact outdoor sport for u18s, the stay at home restriction to be lifted from 5 April alongside the final phase of school reopening and then a gradual reopening thereafter. There is an expectation that Scotland could leave Level 4 restrictions from the last week in April with wider reopening of facilities in some areas.  In Northern Ireland some school years will return from 8 March but currently there are no other changes planned to restrictions until 1 April, subject to review. 

Please be aware we are expecting further updates from the other devolved governments.

Road to Restart

Of course, we know there will be groups that won’t be able to welcome riders back a soon as the end of March and there are good reasons for this. What really matters at the moment is making sure your trustees and volunteers feel motivated and encouraged to get together and start their planning.

Over the next 5 weeks, I will be changing the weekly emails to reflect this change of focus. Each week will have a different theme relating to the ‘Road to Restart’, signposting webinars, guidance and any other resources to help with your planning.

I will send emails on a Monday instead of Thursday, to introduce the theme for that week (along with the usual news). The 5 weeks takes us to 29 March to coincide with what will hopefully be some good news from the Government.

As ever, if you need help with any aspect of your planning and preparations for the coming weeks and months please do get in touch with your brilliant Regional reps or the National Office team. There is also a wealth of experience among groups that managed to reopen last year, many of whom would be more than happy to share what they have learned with others.

30-minute webinars

This week: 25 Feb , 7pm, Advice on First Aid provision & training during lockdown

This will cover changing first aid needs during lockdown, managing and accessing training (and course options) and things RDA groups need to know to be safe and prepared. Please note this is not a First Aid training course!

Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_gRC9MxNlTNKx9hpUliEgpA

Bonus webinar!

25 Feb – 5-7pm Show Jumping Training

Mike Butcher will take you through all the RDA levels, with a focus on introducing it to your sessions. Open to all. Register at:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0kc-6qrT8qEtXNKAjR0rSaxKJWu_taNF7e

Congratulations to the whole team at Park Lane Stables in London. If you haven’t heard the news (and I’m pretty sure it will be all over the news!), they smashed their £1million crowd funder target this morning, after a tireless publicity campaign, culminating in a piece on BBC Breakfast which inspired donations of just under half a million pounds in 2 hours. Along the way, the campaign has done a huge amount to raise awareness of RDA’s work more generally, and been a fantastic showcase for the impact we make in our local communities. An inspirational campaign and a great outcome.

30-minute webinars

Tonight: 7pm, RDA and Education

Coaching Lead Karen Thompson will be presenting and answering questions about all things RDA Education: Endeavour Awards, Proficiency Tests and Asdan – as well as giving an insight into her own group’s activities during lockdown. Any questions for Karen email Lyndsay Wager lwager@rda.org.uk

Register at https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_GdbkV52TTWi74FE5uFeYjw

Next week:  25 Feb, 7pm, Advice on First Aid provision & training during lockdown

This will cover changing first aid needs during lockdown, managing and accessing training (and course options) and things RDA groups need to know to be safe and prepared. Please note this is not a First Aid training course!

Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_gRC9MxNlTNKx9hpUliEgpA

Bonus webinar!

25 Feb – 5-7pm Show Jumping Training

Mike Butcher will take you through all the RDA levels, with a focus on introducing it to your sessions. Open to all. Register at:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0kc-6qrT8qEtXNKAjR0rSaxKJWu_taNF7e

Zoom training from Bennington Carriages

Bennington Carriages are offering Zoom training sessions for newsletter subscribers. The first one was ‘Harnessing up – Part 1’ with great questions, discussion and fun for all. To find out more about upcoming sessions, subscribe to the newsletter via the link https://www.benningtoncarriages.co.uk/  You can also follow them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenningtonCarriagesGB

Reminder: SEIB Search for a Star

SEIB are once again hosting an RDA Virtual Search for a Star Showing Class. Virtual SEIB Search for a Star will take place at Your Horse Virtually Live on the 10 and 11 April 2021. Entries are now open and they close on the 8 March. For more information visit:

www.seib.co.uk/competitions/search-4-a-star-rda/    

If you missed last week’s BBC news feature about us, you can watch the report on BBC Sport here: www.bbc.co.uk/sport/av/disability-sport/55949440 . Around 6.8 million viewers tune in to the 6pm news and I know some groups have benefited directly from people contacting them after seeing the programme, so I hope your group did too.

30-minute webinars
Tonight: Tea with a Pony: 7pm
Find out more from Claire Jenkins (Cotswold RDA and RDA UK Trustee) and RDA staff member Lucy Stokes about this popular project, the impact it is making on those who take part, and the benefits to the group. Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_HxQN0jUFRsWqpw1cy5PkXQ
Next week: 18 Feb, Education & Taking Part at Home
Coaching Lead Karen Thompson will be presenting and answering questions about activities for participants to do at home, Proficiency Tests and Asdan – as well as giving an insight into her own group’s activities during lockdown. Any questions for Karen email Lyndsay Wager lwager@rda.org.uk
Register at https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_GdbkV52TTWi74FE5uFeYjw
25 Feb: Advice on First Aid provision & training during lockdown
This will cover changing first aid needs during lockdown, managing and accessing training (and course options) and things RDA groups need to know to be safe and prepared. Please note this is not a First Aid training course!
Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_gRC9MxNlTNKx9hpUliEgpA

Subscribe to MyRDA YouTube Channel
So that you can watch all these webinars and other useful videos in your own time, I have set up a new RDA YouTube Channel called MyRDA, which I will be adding videos to over the next few weeks. You can find it here: www.youtube.com/channel/UCrI8v8J0WoEXNCu25ktkm0Q
If we get enough subscribers, I can change the web address to something more memorable, so please do visit the channel and subscribe – that way you’ll also hear about new films as they are uploaded.

SEIB Search for a Star
SEIB are once again hosting an RDA Virtual Search for a Star Showing Class. Virtual SEIB Search for a Star will take place at Your Horse Virtually Live on the 10 and 11 April 2021. Entries are now open and they close on the 8 March. For more information visit:
www.seib.co.uk/competitions/search-4-a-star-rda/
Also don’t forget the SEIB Livery Yard & Riding School of the Year Awards, which close on 16 March. More info here: www.seib.co.uk/awards/?fbclid=IwAR37J9BovVoulvY1DvaaiEXKv57bvAbuvKxCzmlFh4vE5qRDq8hI7myhSOU

Looking after your mental health
Finally, if you are struggling with your mental health during this time, do try to get help. Reaching out to others can feel like the very last thing you want to do, but there are people and organisations who can help. We have signposted some support-providers here: myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/getting-started-after-lockdown/supporting-our-people/