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Equestrian Accessibility Mark set to jump hurdles

Accessibility Mark is a pilot project being launched autumn 2013 with the aim of giving more disabled people access to riding in mainstream equestrian centres. The Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) in partnership with the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) and Hoof, will be developing and delivering this project.

Allowing disabled and non-disabled participants to compete on a level playing field is something we are very proud of in our sport. The accessibility mark provides disabled people with a great integrated route into horse riding and makes the sport more accessible to those who may not have been able to experience the freedom and benefits that riding gives you.

Sophie Wells, para-dressage rider, said: 

"I never think of myself as having a disability; I think this is the same for a lot of people and the feeling of being labelled can be off putting when taking part in new things. Accessibility Mark means that anyone can go into any riding centre and get involved in horse riding without making them feel different. Riding has given me something to focus on, more confidence in my everyday life and a group of friends outside my normal social circles. The mark will encourage people into the sport and let disabled and able bodied people ride in the same place, integrating our sport even more at the grassroots level.”

Are you looking for an Accessibility Marked Centre near you?

If you would like to find out more about riding centres that will be offering Accessibility Mark please contact Lizzie Hill at RDA.

Are you a centre that would like to get involved?

The RDA will be delivering this fantastic product providing training, assistance and accreditation to commercial riding centres, schools and clubs. Centres successfully completing the training and assessment will be given a recognised accreditation from RDA – Accessibility Mark – to demonstrate their ability to safely and competently accommodate those with a range disabilities.

For more information on the accreditation process please contact Lizzie Hill.