Articles by Katy

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Makaton Online Taster Sessions

August 31, 2025 Katy 0

As part of this fantastic partnership with Makaton, do not forget to sign up to the online Makaton Taster Sessions exclusively for RDA groups – these three are the final training sessions for 2025. About the Taster Sessions:  

Date: Tuesday 09/09/25 & Thursday 18/09/25 

Content: Learn up to thirty everyday Makaton signs and symbols, plus twelve tailored to equine settings. 

Sign up here: Events – Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA)  

These sessions are a fantastic opportunity for RDA volunteers and coaches to develop skills that will enhance confidence, communication, inclusivity, and participant experience across our groups. 

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Therapy and Medical Module for Coaches

August 11, 2025 Katy 0

Therapy and Medical coaching module on Saturday 6th September, 9.30 to 14.30 at Newbury RDA, RG18 0TN,  led by Elspeth O’Donnell and Theresa Drake

Free of charge for those in the South Region but for anyone attending from other regions there is a £15 charge

Please be dressed for horse handling – gloves and riding hat and bring your own lunch

If interested, please apply to Jenny Whiteman – [email protected] or 07740 708661

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Equine Loss CPD Sessions for RDA Staff and Volunteers 

July 25, 2025 Katy 0

We’re pleased to invite RDA staff and volunteers to take part in the new repeated sessions of virtual CPD workshops, delivered by Blue Cross in collaboration with RDA, kindly supported by the Petplan Charitable Trust.  

These sessions are designed to support those working closely with horses through some of the more sensitive and complex aspects of equine care and transitions at different times of life. 

Topics covered include assessing quality of life, navigating end-of-life decisions, and managing difficult conversations with empathy and confidence. We’ll also explore the Blue Cross Home Direct Scheme, which helps place Blue Cross horses into RDA centres where appropriate, and supports rehoming of horses who may be ready to move on from RDA life. 

These sessions are not only informative but also offer a space to reflect on the emotional aspects of working with horses whose circumstances may change over time. Whether you’re directly involved in care or support decision-making, you’ll gain valuable tools to help you respond compassionately and professionally. 

The first two sessions will take place: 

·                20th August 2025 at 6:30pm 

·                2nd September 2025 at 12:30pm 

(with more dates planned for 2026)