Taking the reins

There’s something wonderful about the enduring connection between humans and horses. For centuries these gentle giants have carried us, worked alongside us and offered unconditional companionship. It’s a relationship built on trust, patience and understanding. For many, the power of that bond can be life changing.

This spirit lies at the heart of the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), a national charity that has been enriching lives for more than 50 years under the patronage of HRH Princess Anne. At the Norfolk Coast group, RDA provides therapeutic riding shaped around achievement and fun. From horse care to riding lessons, proficiency awards and even competitive events, the organisation welcomes people who struggle to find similar opportunities elsewhere.

“We aim to provide riding for people with ADHD, autism and various physical challenges,” explains Amanda Brownlow, Chair and coach of Norfolk Coast RDA. “Horses have a very calming influence on our riders, and the sessions help them build courage while supporting exercise and mobility.”

The benefits reach far beyond the saddle. In a recent survey, riders overwhelmingly reported feeling calmer and more focused during sessions, with improvements in posture, balance and coordination. Most importantly, they felt more confident in themselves. “Being outdoors in nature and engaging with these magnificent animals creates incredible results,” Amanda says. “It contributes enormously to our riders’ sense of wellbeing.”

A typical session begins with an assessment for new riders. Nervous participants are first given time grooming ponies or playing with miniature training horses, learning to relax in the stable environment. Sessions include exercises to develop numeracy and increase vocabulary, with qualified coaches helping children achieve proficiency awards. “We focus on what you can do, not what you can’t,” Amanda emphasises.

The true stars of the show are the horses themselves. Margo, a French Percheron standing at 17 hands (around 5ft 8in at the shoulder), is adored by riders and volunteers alike. “She’s enormous and absolutely lovely,” Amanda smiles. There’s also steady Brandy who gave one rider their first jumping experience and Queenie, a pretty little show pony who has won many hearts.

The impact RDA has on individual riders can be remarkable. Living with multiple sclerosis, 34-year-old Jade rarely misses a session. “Jade has ridden all her life,” Amanda explains. “Sometimes mounting is difficult for her, but the horse stands perfectly still while she gets on. The pleasure it gives her is extraordinary. On days when she feels unable to ride, she’ll just lean her head against the horse, and they communicate in their own way.”

Another rider, Gabe, arrived barely able to speak. “It took him three weeks just to get on the pony,” Amanda recalls, “The smile on his face once he did was wonderful.” Four years later, his progress has been extraordinary. Not only does he ride confidently, he now volunteers with the group. “One day when he was assisting with another rider who has autism, he reminded me to wait and give him time,” Amanda reflects. “He understood what that rider needed because he’d been there himself.”

None of this would be possible without the dedication of over 30 active volunteers, who give their time on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. Every session requires significant support, with many riders needing a leader and two side-walkers, plus a team for mounting. “I think as volunteers we get as much from it as the riders do,” Amanda says. “Some had horses in their past and it keeps them connected, but mostly it’s about being part of these transformations. Watching a child who was terrified finally gain independence they never thought they’d have.”

The Norfolk Coast group is deeply grateful to Sarah Hancock and the North Norfolk Riding Centre in Little Walsingham, which provides access to their horses and facilities. Additional support comes from organisations like Future Biogas through the Egmere community fund, property accountants Sworders, Fakenham Racecourse and generous individual donors. The group also benefits from the backing of Patron Piggy March, an international event rider, and President Annabelle Greenwood - who has lent the group her granddaughters’ wonderful pony, Cherry.

Running the group costs around £12k a year, making public support vital. Events at Stody Lodge Gardens and Cromer Hall help raise funds, along with regular quiz nights, Christmas fundraisers and summer teas. There are many ways to get involved, whether by donating, volunteering at sessions or simply spreading the word.

At Norfolk Coast RDA, the stories speak for themselves. The once non-verbal child who spoke for the first time while sitting on a pony, the young person who couldn’t leave their house but now attends events with dozens of people and the boy whose smile of achievement lit up the arena when he finally found the courage to mount. Patient horses and dedicated volunteers are changing lives, one ride at a time.

To find out more or enquire about sessions for someone who might benefit, email norfolkcoastrda@gmail.com