RDA Spring 2020

The official magazine of Riding for the Disabled Association

Spring 2020

Perfect Partnerships Celebrating your dynamic duos

Plus ▪Calvert Trust Exmoor ▪RDA in Korea ▪Insurance

riding

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driving

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competitions

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education

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therapy

Letter from the Deputy Editor

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fter a very wet winter we take great joy in welcoming you to our Spring 2020 issue. With the new year also comes a new layout for the RDA Magazine and we hope you enjoy reading through the features.

In this issue we take a trip to Calvert Trust and talk to RDA Coaching lead and International liaison office, Sue AdamsWheeler about her experiences with RDA in Korea. We have also turned to Richard Doubleday, from Howden Insurance Brokers, to unravel the mystery of RDA insurance.

After an outstanding year for RDA in 2019, celebrating our 50th anniversary, we are now looking ahead at what will be a very exciting Paralympic year. A key aspect for many Paralympians will be their partnerships - not only with their horses but also with their team mates, sponsors and support teams.

With that in mind, in this month's 'Out and About', we hear about the partnerships that have been developing throughout RDA. We hope to share with you more journeys from our ‘RDA Games Makers’ this year, from grass roots to the Para team and all those who help to support our participants to achieve their goals.

Beth Randles, Communications Coordinator, RDA UK

Riding for the Disabled Association magazine is free to everyone.

To subscribe please contact RDA on +44 (0) 1926 492915 or via our website: rda.org.uk/rda-magazine

About Riding for the Disabled Association Riding for the Disabled Association Incorporating Carriage Driving (RDA) is dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities through the provision of horse riding, carriage driving, showjumping and vaulting.

Through a network of 500 volunteer groups throughout the UK, RDA provides opportunities for therapy, achievement and enjoyment, improving health, well-being and self confidence, and benefiting mobility and co-ordination. RDA is

RDA is a charity registered in England and Wales (No: 244108) and Scotland (No: SC039473)

reliant on voluntary help, donations and legacies to deliver its services.

Please donate now at rda.org.uk.

Contents 20

The official magazine of Riding for the Disabled Association

t: +44 (0) 1926 492915 e: info@rda.org.uk www.rda.org.uk Editor Caroline Ward e: cward@rda.org.uk

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Deputy Editor Bethan Randles e: brandles@rda.org.uk Graphic Design Alex Morris e: alex@matrixprint.com Tolu Akinyemi e: tolu@matrixprint.com RDA Magazine is published by

Matrix Print Consultants Ltd Unit C, Northfield Point, Cunliffe Drive, Kettering, Northamptonshire, NN16 9QJ www.matrixprint.com

While every care is taken in compiling this issue of RDA magazine including manuscripts and photographs submitted, we accept no responsibility for any losses or damage, whatever the cause. All information and prices contained in advertisements are accepted by the publishers in good faith as being correct at the time of going to press.

Neither the advertisers nor the publishers accept any responsibility for any variations affecting price variations or availability after the publication has gone to press. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the permission of the publisher, to whom application must first be made. The views expressed by contributors to RDA magazine are not necessarily those of the RDA, the publisher or its editor. ©2016 The Riding for the Disabled Association.

Material for consideration in this section of the magazine should be submitted via email or digital file transfer to the editor. Submissions should be made on the understanding that the Riding for the Disabled Association has the right to use the material in any part of the magazine and any of its other publications, promotions or website, free from any copyright restrictions, or appearance fees other than the issue of artistic and photographic credits where applicable. Please include name of RDA group, photographer, riders and volunteers.

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Contents Spring 2020

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News

8

Out & About

Join the conversation @RDANational

Keeping up with RDA UK

Inspiring RDA partnerships around the UK

16 Seoul Purpose

Working with PTSD sufferers in Korea

18 RDA Insurances –

the Mystery Unravelled

Find out about your group’s cover

20 Welcome break

We take a trip to Calvert Trust Exmoor

Cover: Lily at Patchwork RDA

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News

National News Keeping up with RDA UK

Liverpool International

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R

DA was the official charity at the TheraPlate UK Liverpool International Horse Show on 28-31 December 2019. A total of 70 volunteers and riders, from across the North West Region, manned the RDA stand and raised funds for the

region through bucket collections over the four days.

Sheila Saner, County Chair for Greater Manchester, said “Riders and volunteers from all over the North West came together to be involved in the show, which gave us all a great sense of occasion. We were so thankful to be chosen as the official charity for 2019 and build a great partnership with Liverpool

International Horse Show. The whole region came together to enjoy a few days of team building, fundraising, and fantastic entertainment.”

The stand was a great success with the public enjoying the Ijoy Hi-tech horse riding machine and racing on horse space hoppers. Altogether the bucket collection raised over £2000 for the region.

News

Vaccinations for National Championships

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roups have been contacted with information for vaccinations ahead of the RDA National Championships, to ensure that horses attending are vaccinated within six months of the competition.

As a minimum, horses will need to be vaccinated annually for Regional Qualifiers. This could vary from region to region depending on the requirement of the venue that is hosting. Check with the organiser if you are unsure.

Regional Vets will also now attend each Qualifier. They are a great resource for checking horses’ passports for vaccines and any anomalies that may prevent entry.

For help contacting or booking your Regional vet, email Emma at ebayliss@rda.org.uk

A decade at RDA

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n January, Activities Coordinator, Sarah Hadley left RDA to take on a new role with British Eventing.

Sarah looked after Dressage, Showing and the National Championships. Over the past ten years at RDA, Sarah has played a vital role in expanding the competition, bringing in new disciplines and ensuring the event ran smoothly.

Dressage will now be being looked after by Marisa Bretherton-Mackay, whilst Emma Bayliss will be overseeing showing. Fiona Harris will be moving from the Coaching team to look after the National Championships.

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News

Paul Tapner (credit ERA/Tim Wilkinson)

New Year Honours

National Coaches training days

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James Duncan, from Forres, was also awarded a BEM for his fundraising efforts in support of local charities including RDA. Since 2003, James has organised an annual golf competition which has raised over £50,000 for his chosen charities.

Attendees will need to bring their passport to have the module signed off. Coaches that already have their certificate should use the day to see how to deliver the Coaching Module within their own groups to future Coaches.

wo RDA volunteers have been mentioned in the Queen’s New Year Honours list. Amanda Say (pictured), who has a number of Regional and group roles in South Wales, received a British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to people with disabilities in Wales.

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he National Coaches training days have been running successfully throughout January and February covering the Coaching Module. The day is designed for Coaches in Training that are working towards their Coach Certificate. The last day will run in the West Mercia region at the National Training Centre on 23rd March 2020.

The day will run from 10am - 4pm.

Refreshments will be provided but do bring a packed lunch. Spaces on this training day are limited so book early to avoid disappointment.

The day will cost £10 per delegate, payment can be made through PayPal. Bookings on the events page on www.myrda.org.uk.

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Australia Day Fundraiser

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n 26 January the Eventing Riders Association of Great Britain (ERA) held an Australia day fundraiser at the RDA National Training Centre in support of the Equestrian Fire Relief Australia Fund. The fundraiser sold out in under 48 hours and so a second performance was arranged for the afternoon.

Big names in the Eventing world came together to host and demonstrate riding techniques included Bill Levett, Tim Price, Sam Griffiths, Chris Burton, Paul Tapner, Piggy French and Alex Bragg, with the event being livestreamed by Horse & Country TV. The event was a great success and raised thousands in support of the equestrian community in Australia that have been affected by the fires.

News

Winners from Cotswold RDA

SEIB Awards

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EIB provide insurance for horses and other equestrian insurances such as livery yard and riding school insurance. Their experience with equestrians has led to the start of the SEIB awards which were hosted this year on 11th January at the Leonardo Royal London City Hotel this year. Two RDA groups were shortlisted with the winner being announced on the night.

Cotswold RDA were awarded the best RDA riding school, with Barrow Farm RDA as runners up. Also highly recommended were Avon RDA, Ride 2 Achieve, Stokesley RDA and Wormwood Scrubs RDA.

Endurance update

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fter the success trialing Endurance at the National Championships last year, riders will now be able to compete at endurance in 2020 with distances of 1km – 5km being included. There will be a qualification process before entry.

For further details visit www.myrda.org.uk/endurance or contact Lucy Stokes on lstokes@rda.org.uk

Welcome to the board

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fter nine years in post as RDA UK Trustee for Fundraising, Jacqui Scott has handed over to Lincoln Clarke.

Jacqui has been fundamental in supporting the National Office fundraising team and shaping the way the board make decisions on fundraising.

Lincoln has a wealth of experience in marketing and fundraising and will be joining the board from March.

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Out & About

Out & About This month we’re celebrating partnership - in all its forms – relationships that make a real difference to groups all over the UK.

Driving partners 8

My present interest, or possibly obsession, within RDA is carriage driving. I got involved with it quite by chance and have come to love it.

I have been so fortunate in the two driving ponies I’ve owned, first Bob the Fell and now Monty. To sit in a carriage behind a driving pony, take a contact on the reins and say

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“Monty walk on” and have him walk willingly and smoothly forward still gladdens my heart – even after 20 years of driving.

How wonderful to have such a generous partner, and not just for me. He does his absolute best for all his RDA drivers. He listens carefully, his ears twitching, for someone to say his name which is his signal to walk or trot on. He walks or trots on willingly for all of us.

Working with us are our Westmorland Driving Group helpers, ready to help the drivers in and out of the carriage, to lend a hand with the games, call a dressage test, clean the harness and the carriage, pick up the poos, our super team, our partners!

Jenny Harris, Westmorland RDA CD Coach

Out & About

New home In December, Solent RDA (formerly Shedfield) moved from the stables that has been home for the past 5 years. It was sad to leave the old stables behind but we knew we would need to move to keep our riders happy and increase participation numbers.

We were delighted when Fort Widley offered us a new RDA home. The move went very smoothly as Fort Widley was already a member group of RDA. We had our first session on Thursday 9th January, which went very well, and we hope the partnership with Fort Widley and our riders and volunteers will go from strength to strength.

Shirley Harris, Solent RDA

Beginning of new friendships

later, I contacted Dial Wood and a date was set for me to try carriage-driving.

I could not wait!

Attending the funeral of my dear friend, Heather Clark, I was introduced to her pony, Barney. I felt extreme emotions when Barney bowed his head (as I have shortened limbs like Heather), allowing me to stroke his mane and make friends. A few days

I was assisted onto the carriage to try driving Duncan, alongside the coach and volunteer walkers - we were off. Duncan was steady, with his ears flicking between us and the moos of distant cows. I could feel my abs working, as we progressed

on my first carriage drive.

Several weeks later, I experienced a session with Splash and a twowheeler to drive instead of four. So different; highly manoeuvrable, lighter too. Splash is smaller than Duncan and ‘bomb-proof’. Wow, I am so hooked!

Now, I have passed my grade 1 carriage driving test - thanks to Julie and Duncan, with whom there is never a dull moment. We have formed a great partnership. Grade 2 here we come!

Grahame Tindale, Dial Wood Carriage Driver

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Out & About

Building a connection On Thursday afternoons Archie, 10, loved his rides with Princess, who came complete with her own diamante headband ‘tiara’.

Each week she gave Archie half an hour of happiness. She trusted him, and he trusted her. They had a special bond which meant the world to him.

After every ride he’d reach out and thank her with an appreciative stroke down the side of her neck and say “see you next week Princess”.

Unfortunately, Princess left the Riding School during the school break.

In good company At Dinefwr Group RDA, our little team sums up the meaning of partnership rather well. Every single volunteer is encouraged to put forward suggestions and work together. This is useful when we are trying to engage riders in some way – I can always count on someone in the team to crack the code!

Our clients often have Autism or are extremely compromised children in need of equine therapy in various guises. In each case, our volunteers

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experience a unanimous feeling of accomplishment when a rider is able to do something as simple, but ground-breaking for them, as being able to sit up without assistance or grip the reins or handles.

I strongly believe that our success as a Group is due to the partnerships we have formed as a team and with our riders. Not to mention the support

When the sessions started again the sense of sadness was etched on Archie’s face, but, after a quick chat he agreed to try a new horse - Jack.

Over the next few weeks Archie became more and more comfortable with Jack, learning about his little quirks, while Jack is becoming more responsive to Archie.

In time their partnership will surely become as important as the one Archie had with Princess. It might be different, but it will still be the kind of unique and personal bond which grows between an RDA horse and their rider Julia Shields, Claverham and Winford RDA

we have from the physiotherapist’s team, school teachers and of course Dinefwr Riding Centre.

Outside of RDA sessions, our volunteers have become good friends who use the end of term as a great excuse to enjoy a pub lunch and a chance to wind down!

Del Richards, Dinefwr RDA

Out & About

Perfect partners Finding that ‘perfect horse’ is often difficult for any rider. But for para riders, that partnership is even more important. How a rider’s disability affects them, really determines what qualities are needed in the perfect equine partner for them.

I have Dystonia, a neurological disorder that affects movement, balance and muscle tone.

Over the past six months I have experienced increased effects from this, which has significantly changed how I can use my body on the horse.

Unfortunately, this meant that my partnership with the horse I loved and had gelled well with, was no longer working.

So I have been trialing some different horses, in my search for a new dressage partner.

This has involved quite a bit of trial and error. They need to be the right width; not too narrow and not too wide, forward and responsive; but not silly or fizzy, have smooth, balanced paces; so as not to increase my muscle tone, and also good foundations in dressage schooling. Responsiveness to voice aids and a sweet personality are a bonus!

Having trialed a number of horses, it became apparent how hard it can be to find one.

However, I think we have now found the perfect partner for me - a lovely Irish sport horse mare called Hilda. Our goals for the next 6 months are to qualify for the National Championships, and then ride a Freestyle to Music at the Champs.

Catriona McCartney-Kitson, Avon RDA rider

Stronger together The partnership between Tommy and myself is a mutual symbiosis.

We feed off each other’s strengths and try to compensate for our myriad of weaknesses. Tommy is perfect in my eyes and I pathetically fall in love with him every Wednesday, hook, line and sinker. I arrive at Belvoir Vale RDA with shuffling feet and aches galore but everything seems to subside when Tommy comes around the corner.

Far be it for me to hint that our partnership is stronger than the actual weather, but honestly, every Wednesday the sun breaks through the clouds just enough to allow us to ride. A Roman God complex? Maybe – but it is true in mine and Tommy’s world.

Unfortunately, my left leg is ridiculously stubborn.

Sometimes it will behave beautifully and give the correct aids as if we are Charlotte Du Jardin and Valegro, then other times it fidgets and shoots my heel up into bizarre angles in an attempt to confuse Tommy. “Is that an Octopus on my back?”

No matter what though, I know we will persevere and fight our weaknesses together. I love you Tommy.

Kristen Hammett, Belvoir Vale rider

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Out & About

Triumphs through technology Richard Brumby, who is deaf, blind and has Asperger’s Syndrome, rides with the Stafford Group. He recently received an award for progress in riding, and the key role he has played in the development of a haptic device which allows him to ride more independently. The device, which Richard wears on each arm, vibrates to tell him whether to go left, right, stop or walk on, and is controlled by his coach, Doug Smith, using his mobile.

Overcoming challenges Daniel started riding with RDA when he was nearly 4. His family now loan an RDA pony called Misty, who he rides each week. During his lesson he sits proudly on Misty, playing i-spy and singing songs whilst riding along the tracks.

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Misty and Daniel have forged such a bond. She will stand calmly next to him, waiting for him to be ready, and he rewards her with carrots. She doesn’t blink an eye if he pulls the reins a little too hard or is having a fidgety day in the saddle. When she snorts he used to put his fingers in his ears, but he now snorts back and she sometimes replies

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Doug comments, “Richard shows tremendous courage and trust in the horses and volunteers who support him. We persevered for nearly two years and the breakthrough came last autumn when Richard rode across the school rather than just send the horse round the track”.

His proud Mum notes, “Richard has now been able to compete, winning two red rosettes, something that none of us ever expected. His progress has been incredible and he now makes decisions for himself and this is a result of his bravery and dedication on horseback.”

presented the award from the Worshipful Company of Lightmongers and, added, “When I heard about Richard having both aural and visual impairments and read of his inspiring riding achievements at RDA, I wanted to give Richard some recognition of his triumph.”

Developed in partnership with Imperial College London it is hoped the technology can be further advanced to enable more riders to use the device.

Doug Smith, Stafford and District

Past Master, Hugh Ogus MBE

- which makes him smile.

has been a pleasure to watch.

Misty has been so patient as we worked out the best way for him to mount. Daniel likes routine and found it challenging to go into the school and use the mounting block. Then last Sunday, he went to Misty's stable said “follow me” and lead her straight to the mounting block, put his foot in the stirrup and mounted properly. They really have formed a special partnership which

This year Daniel’s goal with Misty is to increase the length of his rides. He enjoyed the Endurance scheme and is proud of his rosettes from the grass roots league. Their long term goal is to compete in Endurance at the National Championships.

Linda Davies, Daniel's mum, Yorkshire & Cleveland

Out & About adapted barrel. Throughout the Autumn term Eden and Skye perfected a pairs routine on the barrel to the music of Robbie Williams hit song Angels.

By working together, on gymnastic manoeuvres while balanced 1.5 metres above the ground, they developed a deep respect for what each could bring to the partnership and celebrating their ‘diff-abilities’.

Eden says of Skye: “She’s a great vaulter with a good memory for the routines.”

While Skye says: “Eden is so easy to work with as she has amazing balance

Balancing act When vaulting pony Codey began his well-earned retirement, two members of Gaddesden Place RDA Vaulting team, vowed to keep on improving their skills until a replacement could be found and trained.

Bonding with Bonnie Thinking about Bonnie, I have been working on building a bond with her. I wanted to improve my confidence, courage and contentment. I find a relationship

Eden Hays, 8, and Skye Hueting, 12, have already found vaulting success at the RDA Nationals and the team have won two awards from their local Dacorum Council for participation in sport.

When there isn’t a suitable horse, or just as a way of improving skills, vaulting can be performed on a specially

with any animal helps with this.

I can feel the contact with her through my hands; slowly becoming focused on the here and now. I manage to do a rising trot. As she’s thinking of the correct diagonal I sit for two and we manage to go into canter on the correct leg. I go back to walk and I can feel she’s relaxed and I

In December the pair showcased their routine in a Christmas display along with other Gaddesden Place riders who performed a musical ride. Proceeds from the event will go towards a fund to buy a mechanical horse for the centre, for use by both vaulters and riders.

Lindsay Nicholson, East Region RPO

am too; this lick and chew, I know she understood what I was asking.

As I go down the quarter-line, I support her with my leg when she falls in and once again she becomes straight. As I leg yield over she does whatever I tell her, stepping over the poles in trot without touching them.

Horses are very responsive and calm, we are connected in one movement and that is when you know you have got the partnership right.

I can see huge potential in the future for me and my Bonnie and I hope this is the start of the next chapter of our partnership, as I see so many wonderful times ahead.

Vicky Kidson, North Wales

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Out & About

Now we’re motoring We are a small group in terms of facilities and money but big in drive and enthusiasm. In 2015 we were faced with a dilemma, we had no money and were turning a lot of riders away due to their weight or inability to mount. We wanted to offer carriage driving but had no carriage or horse, was that going to stop us? Hell no!!

We decided to ask for support from

Working Together is Key 14

A partnership can be defined as ‘two or more parties agreeing to co-operate to mutual benefit’ and in the South East Region, we try to put this philosophy at the core of everything we do.

At the coal face there are our wonderful volunteers who give up their time and skills for us and we, in return, hopefully give them fulfilment,

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companies in our local area, we needed wheels so logically I targeted garages. One lovely garage H&L motors said I could pitch to them - so in true Dragons Den style I told them why I needed £20,000.

After what felt like weeks of waiting, but was in fact days, they said YES! In return we would mention them in our social media and promote their garage at any appropriate opportunity.

Over the last few years, our relationship has strengthened

community, friendship and more.

and blossomed. H&L have continued to support us through funding our open day, promotional leaflets, getting to the National Championships and recently our Christmas Social. They even service our carriages and vehicles.

Quite simply, without them our carriage driving venture would not have occurred and we are so grateful of the partnership that has been forged.

Natalie O'Rourke, Park Lane RDA

Not only do our sponsors, Cowan Architects and the Worshipful Company of Wheelwrights, provide much needed funds to run our events, but Cowan’s Phil Mumford and the Wheelwright’s David Mortlock, carve time out of their busy schedules to present the prizes and see first-hand the accomplishments of our riders and drivers.

our ponies form incredible partnerships with their riders. With some relationships being particularly magical and seemingly instantaneous. This mutual trust and enjoyment between participant and equine gives us plenty of special examples in our day-today experiences at RDA. We heard especially moving stories from carriage drivers Sandra Spinner and Joanne McNicol at our regional conference as they recounted their competition experiences.

But at the route of it all, we know that

Joanna Sale, South East Region RPO

Out & About

Long-lasting alliance Julie Paterson has loved her long association with RDA and is never happier, nor her smile broader, than when she's in the saddle. Her favourite horse is always the one she's riding at the time.

to ensure that our participants benefit both physically and emotionally from their riding sessions. Her delight and pleasure over the years is unsurpassed and the bond she develops with the ponies has been invaluable to her quality of life.

Julies partnership with the horses and team at Deeside RDA have made such a happy difference to Julie's world.

Pat James, Deeside RDA

Although Julie is unable to communicate her feelings verbally, we know from her sparkle and enthusiasm that her Friday sessions are the highlight of her week.

Julie is now 38 years old and began riding with RDA at the age of 6.

Since then, Deeside RDA has moved many times but each time Julie has continued riding with us. Effortlessly making friends with the new ponies, helpers and fellow riders.

She is well known and loved by all our volunteers, who give their time freely

Back for good Ravelrig RDA have been a great support system to me for the past two years.

Their continuous help has encouraged me to pursue my life-long passion to compete again after an 18-year break.

My coaches and all the volunteers have made an enormous contribution to the progress I have made and I feel as though I have a purpose in life again. My mental health has improved extensively through having something to look forward to each week.

I now feel much more confident within myself and it grows

every time I ride Thumper, we even managed to qualify at the Regionals last year. In July, team Ravelrig and I set off to the National Championships. This was an amazing achievement for me and pushed me to start my journey to getting classified.

This means I will be competing against people with similar disabilities to me in order to make it a fair competition.

I am forever grateful to the whole team at Ravelrig RDA for all their help and solid commitment to each and every one of us, I look forward to what 2020 holds for us all.

Pamela Johnston, Ravelrig RDA

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Seoul Purpose

Seoul Purpose Her work as International Liaison for RDA has taken National Coaching Lead Sue Adams-Wheeler all over the world. We caught up with her after a recent trip to South Korea.

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aving heard a talk by Sue about Equine Assisted Learning, The Korea Racing Authority (KRA) asked for her help. The Authority, which, as well as running the hugely popular racing industry, also has a remit to improve social welfare, is starting a programme to support fire-service and military personnel with PTSD. “These are people who need to learn to trust again,” explains Sue. Korea has a progressive attitude to horses for therapy and well-being.

Like RDA, the Korea Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship is a member of HETI (Horses in Equine Therapy International), and the Korean government even launched an initiative last year offering all citizens 10 subsidised riding lessons.

“They want to encourage people to get fit and active, and to have more interactions with animals,” says Sue.

Groundwork 16

Sue was invited to work with staff and representatives from the fire service at KRA’s spectacular Race Park, in the Juam-Dong district of Seoul. Built as an equestrian park for the 1988 Summer

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Olympics, the facility was converted to the LetsRun Park a year later and is now one of three state of the art racecourses in the city. “There are about 1,500 horses on site and around 1000 members of staff,” says Sue. “They all have lunch in a vast canteen.”

There is already plenty of RDA-style activity at the site, predominantly with children. Indeed, one of the delegates had trained with RDA at the Diamond Centre 20 years ago – and even had the certificate that Sue presented her with all those years ago! But working with PTSD sufferers would require a different approach. “Their coaches are great, but at the moment they don’t really have the skills to work with clients off the horse, which can be so beneficial for adults with trust issues,” says Sue.

Horsepower As with most of her international trips, Sue’s role was not to carry out sessions, but to train the horses and coaches so that they can deliver the programmes. There were two main elements to her work with the team.

The first was working with the horses to ensure they were suitable and happy to do what was asked of them.

“The horses are new to RDA and this kind of work,” explains Sue. Unlike their fellow stablemates on the racing yard, the team will be working with a Gypsy Cob and some a Connemaras, bought by KRA in Ireland as part of their visit to HETI in 2018. “They are lovely horses,” says Sue, “and ideally suited to the kind of trust building exercises that these clients will need.”

Seoul Purpose

Many of the people this team will be working with may have previously been leaders, and assume they still are. But their experiences may have changed them. This can cause real frustration. It’s about finding out who you are, realising your strengths and learning to accept where you are now,” she explains.

Confidence tricks The majority of Sue’s week was spent training the staff team at KRA and the representatives from the fire service who will be leading the project.

The mornings were set aside for theory. The group looked at how horses think and react – and how to identify their different personalities.

“You want to know if the horse you are working with wants to be the boss, or if they are a follower; if they are sanguine or choleric. This has a massive impact on how they will react during a session,” explains Sue. The afternoon sessions were a chance to put their learning into practice. Much of the work involved

confidence building and observation, as Sue explains: “We did sessions on how to handle the horses and really tried to build everyone’s confidence in being around them on the ground being a bit braver with them.”

Acceptance Games formed a big part of the week as Sue tried to relax the group, build confidence and help them get to know the horses better. As the days went on, they learned how to interact with the horses and understand how their own behaviours influenced how the horses reacted. ”There’s an exercise I learned from the American Army, to find out if you are a leader, driver or follower.

The park has a massive indoor school, so at lunchtime they turned the horses out and just observed their behaviour. “You can see their basic interactions, how they socialise, show companionships, aggravate each other, resolve conflict. That teaches you so much about horses – and also about humans too. You might ask: ‘how does that remind you of your own behaviour and how you would react?’”

Proven skills Following Sue’s training, the team will now start delivering the programme, designed to rebuild trust and confidence for PTSD sufferers among Korea’s fire and military personnel.

She has already been asked back, and since Korea is hosting the next HETI conference this year, that visit may be sooner that she imagined.

Since returning from Korea, Sue’s Asian adventures have continued, with whistle-stop visits to Hong Kong, Malaysia and Singapore. “So many places want to work with RDA, to follow our methods – and even to become affiliated with us,” she says. “They want to come to the UK and receive training here at the new centre. I’d love us to get to that point.

We’ve got good systems, supported by strong evidence and years of experience. They love the fact that we can back up what we say with real evidence that working with horses can help people.”

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RDA Insurance

RDA Insurances -The mystery Unravelled

Chairman of the Sport and Recreation Team at Howden insurance brokers, Richard Doubleday, explains the “mystery of insurance�

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aving worked in the insurance industry for over twenty years I am acutely aware of the pitfalls of my profession as far as consumers are concerned.

Generally, the products we supply are treated with suspicion, the language we use is unintelligible and, if a claim arises, doubters believe insurers will look to the small print to see if they can avoid making a payment.

Not good then; however that is not always the case and I would like to think, at least in the case of the RDA and its member groups, your broker Howden and insurer Hiscox, are doing a good job.

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Credit: Nigel Kirby

Having said that, we do acknowledge the language we use can be confusing and long winded. As such,

RDA Insurance

in this article, I have been challenged by the RDA to provide a very simple summary of the insurances provided, what to do in the event of an accident, and when to let us know if one of your riders, drivers, employees or volunteers has suffered an injury.

Here goes!

Your cover All RDA member groups, volunteers and staff receive Public Liability insurance protection. In effect, if you are working either as a volunteer or employee, you are “covered” if you are alleged to have caused an injury to another person, or damage to property. Insurers will pay your legal defence costs and, if you are found to have been at fault, damages will be paid on your behalf.

Likewise, groups with professional staff are similarly protected if an employee is injured or suffers a loss.

Groups also have access to a Legal Advice/Expenses policy – available 24/7 – covering a wide range of issues (including legal and taxation) that may affect the running of their business.

Volunteers and staff (but not participants) also receive Personal Accident benefits – which pay an agreed lump sum if they suffer a serious injury, whilst on RDA duty. In order to qualify for a payment under this policy the injury must be permanent and without expectation of recovery.

Incident advice Whilst you do not necessarily need to know all about your insurance, it is essential that you and/or your group know what to do in the event of an incident – however slight it may be. In line with RDA protocols, you need to record all relevant information but, if you are wondering what that is, the first rule of thumb is to follow your instincts and use your common sense. In short, write down any details you think might be relevant, should you subsequently find yourself having to defend an

allegation of negligence. The quicker you write things down, using an incident form template or standard HSE form, after an incident has occurred, the better. Please also take relevant witness statements and keep all the information for at least three years or until the person involved is at least 21 years old.

Notifying an incident to your broker- Howden When working with horses and ponies, it is inevitable that something will go wrong from time to time, the most obvious examples being a kick, or a fall. We advise, whatever the circumstance, details are written down and recorded, however you do not necessarily need to let us know.

By way of example, a few bruises, a graze, or a broken finger or toe does not need to be notified. A serious injury involving a hospital stay, or a head injury such as concussion, certainly does. Of course there is a massive area between the two examples, however the rule of thumb, once again, is to follow your instincts and use your common sense.

The one exception to the rule is allegations of any safeguarding related issues or abuse. In these circumstances please contact the Safeguarding Team at the RDA National Office immediately – and they will take any necessary further action.

By way of summary, then, here is our advice: •

•

Set out with the firm intention of following RDA guidelines at all times. They have been extremely well constructed and have been proven to be “fit for purpose” time and time again If you have to deviate from those

guidelines – make sure you record the reasons why, so your decision can be justified, should the need subsequently arise •

Follow your instincts and use your common sense. You are well trained, sensible and experienced people – don’t be afraid to use your skills

•

If you are in doubt about anything – get in touch with a member of the Howden team

For further information: •

If you would like to find out more about the insurance that is provided, all relevant information can be found at: www.rda-insurance-centre.com

•

If you have a general enquiry that cannot be answered, please contact Catherine Morgan

•

Email: catherine.morgan@ howdengroup.com Tel: 0207 133 1387

•

If you have had an incident that you think may or will lead to a claim, please contact Karen Stewart. Email karen.stewart@ howdengroup.com Tel: 0121 698 5046

Both Karen and Catherine will be happy to help, and look forward to hearing from you.

And finally: Enjoy what you do! The RDA is a wonderful organisation with dedicated groups and an army of well trained, experienced and committed volunteers. Without doubt, things will not always go according to plan, however the chances are you will never have an accident, or an injury, that gives rise to a claim.

So, keep up the good work, trust your instincts, use your common sense, and make a difference!

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Welcome Break

Welcome break A weekend of forest fun and friendship on Exmoor

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hen Jersey RDA Chair, Cathy Fricker and Group Organiser, Rachel Andrews took over the running of the group, they made a wish list of things they wanted to achieve. Right at the top was ‘go on a group holiday.’ 12 years and 5 holidays later, we find out more about their experiences at the remarkable Calvert Trust Exmoor.

“We always had a riding holiday in the back of our minds,” says Rachel Andrews, who has been involved at Jersey since 2000. “After the financial uncertainty of 2008, we wanted the group to flourish – not just survive.”

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A publicity push resulted in more support, and when a local Family Trust came forward and asked if there was anything particular the group would like to do, Rachel and Cathy remembered their wish list.

They did some research and found Calvert Trust Exmoor, an outdoor adventure centre specially designed for disabled people and their families. Among the many activities on offer, The Trust (which is also an RDA group) runs horse activity weekends, and with Exeter only a short flight away, Rachel and Cathy started planning.

A real break The first trip was in 2012. Six riders and six parents, accompanied by Rachel, took a flight to the mainland and spent a weekend immersed in the beautiful surroundings of Exmoor National Park. “Everyone had a wonderful time,” recalls Rachel. “The Trust takes care of everything – all the activities, the meals, the evening entertainment.

The riders are busy all day long.”

With a weekend totally centred

Welcome Break

around horses, the group enjoyed hacks in the forest, carriage driving, games and competitions – and even the parents had a go at riding, much to the amusement of the kids.

The fully accessible facilities also include an indoor pool and games room, so there’s plenty to do in the evenings too.

That first year was a real eyeopener for Rachel. “I was surprised how much of a break it was for parents as well. They really gelled as a unit, sitting and chatting.”

When the group returned to Jersey, it was clear that the trip had made a lasting impression. “They were able to push them on a bit, and have concentrated time with the ponies. The environment is great for learning and when they came back many could do rising trot!”

Time to socialise Since that first trip, the group have tried to return to Exmoor every couple of years. In 2014, Jersey volunteer and parent, Kerri Correia went with her son, Indie. “It was more than I could have imagined,” she says. “The setting is beautiful, you can see for miles.

They have a huge indoor and outdoor school for riding lessons, there are hacks through the forest and the teachers are brilliant.”

Like Rachel, Kerri found both she and Indie benefitted from the chance to socialise with other members of the group. “The children really bond and I got to spend time with other parents and have a bit of social time. It is such a positive place – the kids don’t notice how well organised it is – but as a parent you do.”

Indie and Kerri were impressed by the trip, and were delighted when they were offered the chance to go again three years later. “I would really recommend it. It had a lasting impact on Indie. For us, going away is a real treat. Now I’m encouraging new parents to give it a go.”

Outdoor pursuits Calvert Trust Exmoor is one of three Calvert Trust venues around the UK, all set up under the same guiding principle of the charity’s founder John Freyer-Spedding, whose vision was to enable people with disabilities to benefit from outdoor activities in the countryside. The first centre to open was Calvert Lakes, Keswick (which is also an RDA group, with equestrian activities run by RDA Regional Co-

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21

Welcome Break

chair Henri Carew). The other centre is in Kielder, Northamptonshire.

In charge of all things horsey at Exmoor is Supervisor Kerri Marangone. “For our clients staying here during the week, we have sessions on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. We have private lessons for disabled clients on Monday , Friday and Saturday. Once a month we do a ‘Pony Club’.”

Just like other RDA groups, Kerri and her small staff team rely on the support of volunteers, a dedicated few who give two days a week. “We couldn’t do it without them,” she says.

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Fully accessible Calvert Trust Exmoor has 12 horses – including a miniature Shetland and a Suffolk Punch. “They are

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priceless to us,” says Kerri. “Gold dust.” Even so, as she explains, working at Exmoor is “not just a horse job. We are there for our guests – to make it fun.”

The whole centre caters for all kinds of disabilities, with staff and facilities to ensure that even those with the most complex needs can take part.

“We have an overhead hoist as well as our wheelchair ramp for mounting and we try to let people do as much as they want.”

‘Bob the barrel’ is often the starting point. “He has a horse’s head and reins and he lives in the yard. Sitting on Bob is a good way for people to find out if they are going to be able to manage sitting on a real horse, or if it’s going to be too uncomfortable for them. In that case there’s always carriage driving and plenty of other activities round the yard.”

Grateful thanks Back at Jersey, the group is already looking ahead to this year’s trip. The continued support from the local Trust allows the group to cover the full cost for riders taking part, and half for carers. “We know we are so fortunate to be able to offer this to our riders,” says Rachel.

They are of course fortunate – but Jersey definitely made their own luck when they decided to reach out to their local community for support.

“It was a delight to discover Calvert Trust Exmoor,” says Rachel. “We make a photo book for the family that supports the holidays. It’s important to thank people and be able to show them where the money has gone. For our riders, living on a small island, everything about the trip to Exmoor opens their eyes.”

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