Assistance doesn’t just have to be financial. Herefordshire RDA can only deliver our equine therapy down to the large team of volunteers that donate time to us each week.
We are always in need of volunteers to help in our riding sessions, look after our wonderful RDA horses and to keep the premises in good working order. The social aspect of being involved in Herefordshire RDA is invaluable to many of our riders, volunteers and staff. Having common goals, where you are made to feel welcome and part of a team, all whilst enjoying socialising is encouraged.
What kind of tasks do volunteers undertake and how do you book a slot?
We need volunteers to carry out a variety of tasks at the Centre. The main roles are helping clients ride our ponies by leading or side-walking in our arena, but we also need volunteers to help with yard tasks such as mucking out, grooming, tacking up and field maintenance.
We use ‘Three Rings’ a volunteer booking system which you can link to via your phone or laptop, the volunteer booking system show all the shifts available over the coming weeks (up to 6 weeks in advance) which provides you with the flexibility to select shifts which are suitable for your schedule and needs. There is availability to select the same slot each week or you can move around and select different days.
How much time do I have to give?
We have volunteers who come for a couple of hours every fortnight to some who come for a day each week. We are open for lessons on a Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and we would be delighted if you could commit to a few hours per each week in the morning or afternoon but anytime you can spare is valuable to us.
Do I have to have any horse experience?
Absolutely not. All volunteers go through an induction and training period where we show you how to carry out the tasks required. Don’t worry if you are not confident being around horses – there is opportunity to get as close or far away as you feel comfortable.
How is RDA organised and run?
Herefordshire RDA has a well-established team which ensures good governance, management and the operations of the organisation. We have a Board of Trustees who overseen the running of the centre and two full- time members of staff.
All members of staff undergo training via the RDA programme and complete regular safeguarding updates due to our work with vulnerable adults and young people.
As a new volunteer, you will follow an induction programme approved by the National Riding for the Disabled office and work towards a signed off volunteer ‘Green Card’. All volunteers must undergo a DBS disclosure check as part of the induction process.
Interested?
To register as a volunteer – Click on the link below to download our Volunteer Form.
We will then invite you to the HRDA centre for a tour and to meet the team.
Volunteer Application Form (5488 downloads )