At RDA therapy is often disguised as an opportunity to have fun. In fact recent research into rider outcomes shows that after just 12 weeks 74% demonstrated physical improvement, 77% experienced greater confidence and 75% more enjoyment. 65% showed a greater willingness and ability to communicate, 72% showed improved relationship building skills and 78% demonstrated clear advances in horsemanship.
The Therapy through Horses Plan has 5 main objectives to provide the best possible experience for riders, carriage drivers and vaulters (gymnasts on horseback).
- To encourage a partnership approach to goal setting and evaluation by the use of the RDA Tracker outcome assessment tool. We know that people achieve more when they are supported to work toward a goal.
- To promote internal and independent research so that RDA gains insight about the needs, aspirations and experience of adults and children who ride and drive our horses.
- To provide training to coaches, therapists and volunteers through written materials and courses.
- To engage and retain physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists who can use their professional skills in an equine environment.
- To provide consultancy via a panel of medical and non-medical therapeutic and educational experts.
RDA seeks to work in partnership with other organisations such as:
- ACPEA (Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Equine Activities) ACPEA Regional representatives are listed in the ‘Physio point of contact’ https://www.acpea.org/
- EFOT (Equine Facilitated Occupational Therapy) https://www.efot-uk.co.uk/
- HETI (Horses in Education and Therapy International) https://hetifederation.org/
- as well as schools and the NHS in order to make therapeutic riding and equine assisted activities available to more people with disabilities.