Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), in partnership the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) has launched Accessibility Mark to encourage more people into the world of horse riding and its therapeutic benefits.

Over 50 centres have gained the Accessibility Mark stamp of approval. By applying for Accessibility Mark, the centre will be able to gain training and advice from RDA (in return for a commercial fee) and once RDA are satisfied that the standards are met, the centre will be awarded their endorsement and will become a centre with Accessibility Mark. 

If you are a centre interested in the Accessibility Mark accreditation then please take a look at the Information & Support Pack on the right hand side which contains lots of information about the project including Centre requirements.

If you would like to take part or for more information please fill in the online form

Useful links for Accessibility Mark Centres

E-Learning
Our e-Learning courses are a great way to develop your skills and understanding. For further information please visit www.rda.org.uk/e-learning

Education in RDA

Accessibility Mark Proficiency Test Handbook can be download here – AM Riding & Horse Care Proficiency Test Handbook
The Accessibility Mark education resources including price list can be downloaded here – Accessibility Mark Centre – Education resources

Further details regarding the RDA Proficiency Tests see link below https://myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/proficiency-tests/

https://myrda.org.uk/runningyourgroup/endeavour-award/

Special Equipment
For more information on special equipment in RDA please visit special-equipment

Medical guidelines
RDA Epilepsy Policy
Notes on Medical Conditions and Disabilities- being updated
Contra Indication Guidance

Horse and Rider Combination Calculator & Guidance

Horse and Rider combination is something AM centres must carefully monitor on a regular basis. In line with our Weight Chart Guidelines  we have a Weight Calculator to help our AM centres work out the maximum weight a horse could carry. This includes tack and is before taking into consideration, the conformation, age, health and fitness of the horse. Centres must be aware that although heavier horses are deemed to be able to carry more weight when using the figures from the weight chart, this does not include horses that are overweight. If a horse is overweight in itself then carrying more weight will increase the risk of lameness and poor health. Centres must be mindful of adjusting weight carrying capacity in these situations and work towards reducing the equine’s body weight.

This is purely to ensure that participants and horses are correctly paired. The information is completely confidential.

Please note: weight calculator will appear as a Microsoft Excel download.

Useful resources from other organisations
British Blind Sport-Equestrian Resource
Activity Alliance – Access for all: Opening Doors
Activity Alliance – Inclusive Communications Guide
Engaging disabled people: the guide

All Activity Alliance resources can be found on their website here.

If you have any questions or queries, please contact National Office at am@rda.org.uk or 01926 492915.