Therapeutic power of horses
How horses are supporting confidence, wellbeing and inclusion
Young people have been sharing how horses have helped them build confidence, develop new skills and feel more connected to their communities, as part of a new initiative involving the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA).
The project brings together young people from different backgrounds through a shared interest in horses, with participants taking part in riding, horse care and social activities designed to encourage confidence, communication and personal development.
The first event took place at Park Lane Stables RDA in London, bringing together young people from RDA and the charity Power of Polo.
Positive benefits of equine activities
Organisers say the wider programme will explore how horses can help people develop self-belief, aspiration and meaningful social connections.
Several participants described the positive impact that equine activities have had on their lives.
Josiah, who has autism and dyspraxia, said involvement with horses had helped him feel more confident and included:
“At Park Lane, I’m not separated or treated differently – I’m just a rider and part of a team,” he said. “The horses help me feel calm, confident and understood, and being here has completely changed how I see myself and what I believe I can achieve.”
Taking positive steps
Since joining RDA, he has gone on to compete in regional and national competitions, volunteer at the stables and take part in leadership opportunities.
Another participant, Toby, began riding after physiotherapy was recommended to help improve his core strength. He said spending time with horses had given him confidence, friendships and a sense of belonging.
“When I’m with the horses, I feel calm, confident and free. The Diamond Centre is my happy place – it’s given me friendships, opportunities and a real sense of belonging.”
Why horses can make a difference
Equine-assisted activities can offer a range of benefits for disabled people and those with long-term health conditions, including:
- Greater confidence and self-esteem through learning new skills and achieving personal goals.
- Improved physical wellbeing, including balance, posture, coordination and core strength.
- Better social connections through shared activities, teamwork and meeting new people.
- Enhanced mental wellbeing, with many participants describing feelings of calm, purpose and belonging when spending time with horses.
- Opportunities for volunteering and leadership, helping young people develop skills that can support education, employment and community involvement.
Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) supports more than 39,000 disabled children and adults across the UK each year through riding, carriage driving and other horse-related activities.
RDA works with disabled children and adults
RDA works with disabled children and adults across the UK, providing opportunities for riding, carriage driving and other equine-assisted activities. The charity supports more than 39,000 people each year through a network of over 450 community-based groups.
Organisers say the latest collaboration highlights the wider benefits that horses can offer, including improved wellbeing, greater independence, increased confidence and opportunities to form new friendships.
The project will continue over the coming months, with participants taking part in further equestrian experiences designed to broaden skills, build confidence and encourage inclusion.
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Further reading and resources
Find out more about RDA on their website (external link will open in a new browser tab or window)
Find out more about Power of Polo here (external link will open in a new browser tab or window)
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