We are a Riding for the Disabled Association centre
Because it’s what you can do that counts
RDA activities will return to Park Lane in Teddington following refurbishment of the building. For now, we continue to operate from Manor Farm Stables in Petersham. See our Contact us page for details.
We daily see how being around horses enriches the lives of children and adults with disabilities or learning difficulties. Whether on the autistic spectrum, visually impaired, or a full-time wheelchair user, we offer activities that can help improve confidence, skills and self-esteem, set within a supportive and friendly environment. All sessions are run by qualified RDA, Pony Club, and natural horsemanship coaches most of whom are volunteers.
Some of our young RDA visitors have even become permanent members of the Park Lane team, where they now help a new generation follow in their footsteps.
To find out more about the options listed below, email us at theteam@parklanestables.co.uk
RDA horse riding
One-to-one and group RDA sessions for children and adults with disabilities and learning difficulties. Sessions usually last for 30 minutes. Volunteers are on hand to support riders unable to ride unassisted.
Adult two hour session on Wednesday afternoons, comprising an hour riding in Ham and an hour taking part in horse care and stable duties.
RDA riders can also join rides in Ham throughout the week.
Hippotherapy
We are currently unable to offer hippotherapy due to lack of available facilities. We hope to be able to be up and running again soon.
This specialist therapy is available for children with disabilities who do not meet the RDA minimum physical riding requirements. Hippotherapy utilises the movement and rhythm of the horse in therapeutic treatment towards therapy goals specific to each child, such as improving balance, sitting, standing or walking.
Each session is led by a chartered physiotherapist who has completed a post-graduate certificate specialising in hippotherapy.
Carriage Driving
A fun activity for anyone, including those whose disability means they are unable to ride. Our specially adapted carriage means that even full-time wheelchair users can enjoy carriage driving in Bushy Park in complete safety. The next best thing to riding.
We offer 30 minute driving sessions on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Participants can work towards proficiency certificates and enter competitions.
Our Carriage Driving Team won a Highly Commended Award at the national 2019 Carriage Driving Awards. We’re also nominated for 2022 in the Driving for the Disabled Group of the Year category.
The carriage was commissioned by local company H&L Motors, specially to meet our needs, and given to us as a gift.
This generous act has meant that RDA members who are full-time wheelchair users can also experience the magic of horses. For someone like Dominic (pictured), it makes a world of difference.
About the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA)
The RDA has around 500 riding centres in the UK benefiting 25,000 disabled children and adults. Their President is Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal, Princess Anne, who refers to Park Lane Stables as ‘the pavement ponies’.