Do I need to know anything about horses?

No. RDA provides training for all its volunteers depending on the role you undertake. RDA Groups provide ongoing training for their volunteers on an annual or quarterly basis.

Do I need previous experience?

Not necessarily. RDA has many different types of roles, most of which don’t require any experience. Of course, if you do have skills you’d like to share with us – we’d love to hear from you!

Can I volunteer outside normal working hours?

Many of our Groups offer sessions at weekends or in the evenings.

Do I need to make a regular commitment to volunteering?

a) Volunteering with a Group – Groups tend to offer RDA activities during term time on a weekly basis, so being able to commit to helping at a regular session would be great, but everyone understands that’s not always possible and there are many other flexible roles available.

b) Volunteering with RDA UK – Roles at RDA UK tend to be more administrative and many can be undertaken at home or on an ad hoc basis.

c) Volunteering at events – RDA organises several events during the year which need volunteers as a one-off commitment. Contact us to find out more.

How old do I have to be to Volunteer?

Volunteers have to be 12 or over. There is no upper age limit.

Will I be insured?

Yes. All RDA Groups have Trustee Indemnity, Public Liability insurance for all volunteers. Volunteers aged between 12 and 90 also have Personal Accident insurance (with some restrictions for those aged between 80 and 90)

More information is available on our dedicated insurance page.

Will I be asked to complete a Disclosure check?

All RDA volunteers actively involved with RDA sessions are required to undergo a disclosure check as they volunteer with vulnerable adults and children. This is handled through the group that you choose to volunteer with.

Will volunteering at RDA help me find a job?

If you’re trying to find a job, volunteering can be a great route to employment. Adding volunteering experience to your CV can give you an edge over other applicants and you’ll have more to talk about. RDA volunteering can boost your confidence and help you learn new skills.

A survey carried out by Timebank through Reed Executive showed that among 200 of the UK’s leading businesses:

• 73% of employers would employ a candidate with volunteering experience on their CV over one without.
• 94% of employees who volunteered to learn new skills had benefited either by getting their first job, improving their salary or being promoted

Can I volunteer whilst pregnant?

There aren’t any insurance implications for pregnant volunteers, the conversation should be kept open to ensure that the volunteer feels comfortable in their role so Groups can identify any adaptations or adjustments that may benefit the volunteering as well as remaining safe and comfortable.

How do I find out about opportunities in my area?

You can use our Group Finder to see which Groups meet near to you.  Just enter your postcode and all the details you require will be displayed, you can then give them a call.  Alternatively, contact us and we will send you details of opportunities in your area and how to get involved.