Sponsor a pony programme
Introducing local businesses and groups to our new Sponsor A Pony initiative at Green Cottage RDA. Sponsor a pony for many benefits
Green Cottage Riding for the Disabled Association
We provide riding lessons for children with a variety of special needs and disabilities.
Welcome to Green Cottage RDA
We’re an independent charity that is a member of the Riding for the Disabled Association.
Green Cottage RDA was founded more than 50 years ago, and since then we have benefitted hundreds of local children and their families
We rely entirely on voluntary help, donations, and legacies to deliver our services on a complimentary basis to the families we support.
We see potential
in everyone
We encourage learning
through games
Our RDA volunteers support individual needs
We encourage individuals to learn to ride and horse management
Connection is
the most powerful
emotion
Transforming lives
There are so many benefits of horse riding
Our team are qualified coaches and trained helpers, all volunteers freely giving their time, dedication, and enthusiasm.
Health
Lots of physical and mental health benefits from riding horses, making friendships, being outdoors and gaining support
Improve strength, coordination and balance
Communication
Many people living with disability may have difficulty relating or getting close to other people. Yet they manage to establish close bonds with horses.
Improve communication
Development
Listening for instructions from the coach and volunteers as they learn to guide the horse around an arena, groom the horse, complete a Trail Ride
Develop new skills
Enjoyment
Our lessons are active, social and lots of fun for all students both in the arena and out on our hacks in the local countryside
Enjoyment and fun
About us
Green Cottage Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), is an independent charity that is a Member Group of Riding for the Disabled Association.
The Group operates on Thursday mornings during school term time, at Green Cottage Riding Centre in Three Legged Cross, Wimborne, Dorset. Our team consists of qualified coaches and trained helpers, all volunteers freely giving their time, dedication, and enthusiasm.
We provide riding lessons for children with a variety of special needs and disabilities such as cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism, ADHD and many complex learning and development disorders.
Quarrymen Santa’s visiting Green Cottage on Sunday 1st December
The Quarrymen have chosen to visit Green Cottage RDA and we are looking forward to welcoming them on Sunday 1st December
Fundraising at Verwood Rustic Fayre
We’re set up and looking forward to a sunny afternoon at the Verwood Rustic Fayre. Come and say hi!
Hobby Horse competition 31st August 2024
Come and join us for a fun afternoon of hobby horse competition. Open to anyone but please book your slot. £15 Cash. 1-3pm. 31/8/24.
New qualified RDA Coaches Gwyn and Mandy
Our warmest congratulations to Gwyn and Mandy, who have recently qualified as coaches.
Dorset RDA Fun Day
Some of our riders took part in the Dorset RDA Fun Day today. Our hosts were Milton Abbas Riding for the Disabled, who organised a superb morning of riding, games, a treasure hunt and cakes.
Your support MAKES A DIFFERENCE
Testimonials
“Green Cottage Riding for the Disabled has been a breakthrough for our daughter who is unable to attend any educational setting and struggle with demands. She has progressed so much in such a short time with her riding ability but also listening, interacting and improvements in her mental health.”
Parent
“My daughter, aged 9 started riding just before the pandemic. She absolutely adores it, and is a total natural. The volunteers are brilliant and the horses are so friendly. She loves to see the horses and give them big hugs and kisses.””
Parent
“My son 13 has autism spectrum disorder, hypermobility, poor postural stability and anxiety, and struggled to attend school, or take part in PE sessions. From his first lesson at Green Cottage RDA he just seemed to have a natural affinity with his pony and ability to ride. At first, his riding lessons with RDA were often the only time he left the house all week. Each week his confidence has grown, and he has passed his level 1 and 2 horse proficiency. Riding with RDA has built his confidence enormously, and he is engaging more with everyday life. I honestly believe this would not have happened if it wasn’t for the experience and support he has had at Green Cottage.””
Parent
“Thank you all for everything this year, we are so very grateful. It’s one of the highlights of my week seeing Imogen ride and do something she enjoys and also knowing Ollie has a great lesson too. ”
Parent
Sponsors and supporters
A few of the companies that have helped the RDA
