Hope in the valley RDA (riding for the disabled association)

We meet in the Audrey Unthank Arena, Equine Department, Plumpton College, Ditchling Road, Near Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 3AE

We hold our weekly sessions on Wednesday afternoons during school term times.

The Riding Sessions

The riding sessions are from 10 to 45 minutes, depending on the standard, age and physical strength of each rider. Beginners may have three helpers, one leading the pony and one on either side of the rider. More advanced riders may ride independently.

We are able to offer riding to a broad spectrum of disabled riders as we can use our lift platform to get them safely on to the pony. The lift was generously donated to us by Dane Rawlins, the patron of our charity and it is a great asset for the group.

Hope in the Valley will provide each child with all the necessary riding clothing as well as a riding hat which meets the most up to date safety standards. This becomes important if the rider stays with us for some time and grows! We have a dedicated changing room which is useful if, for example, the rider has come directly from school.

Each session is taught by a qualified RDA coach who is also a first aider. We also have a number of other volunteers who keep up to date with their first aid certification.

We hold our sessions in a full-size indoor arena. In fine weather the children often enjoy a hack around the grounds of the college.