Chair of Coaching Committee & Trustee: Participant Experience
My connection with the Riding for the Disabled Association began through my son, who has a very rare chromosome disorder and Autism. He did not speak until he was seven years old, and his very first words were spoken to a pony we had bought for his older brother. It was a moment that demonstrated, first-hand, the remarkable therapeutic power of horses.
Around 14 years ago, my son became a volunteer at the Elisabeth Curtis Centre. As someone who has always been motivated by horses, the Centre quickly became an important part of our lives. In 2014, when RDA first introduced classes for participants with a learning disability, he began competing and has since attended the Regional Qualifiers every year, apart from 2020. He has also qualified for the National Championships on every occasion.
In 2017, I was asked to become County Chair for Bedfordshire RDA. Since then, I have become a Trustee at the Elisabeth Curtis Centre, taken on the role of Volunteer Coordinator and joined the Fundraising Group, supporting the Centre's activities and development.
I believe I bring a unique perspective to the Board of Trustees, as I am first and foremost the parent of both a disabled participant and a disabled volunteer. This gives me a valuable understanding of the impact that RDA can have on individuals and families.
As horse owners ourselves, we also understand the dedication, care and commitment required to look after ponies, as well as the preparation involved in training and competition. Combined with my wider involvement across RDA, this helps me understand both the opportunities and challenges facing groups locally, regionally and nationally, and how we can continue to provide the very best experience for our participants and volunteers.