All RDA groups rely on volunteers – a single riding session for five disabled people could need ten or more volunteers. Tack, field shelters, fences, stables, water troughs, riding arenas and horse-boxes all need maintaining, and there is always administration to be done. We welcome volunteers with a variety of skills and volunteering at SBRDA can form part of the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme.
What do volunteers do? At SBRDA our volunteers are involved in everything needed before, during and after class: grooming, tacking/untacking, leading, side-helping. Our volunteers are key to the success of our riders, supporting them during their lessons, helping them to develop skills and independence.
To volunteer with us, you need to:
Be over 14 years – our volunteers are a range of ages.
Have a good sense of humour.
Be empathetic and understanding.
Be keen learn and pass on your knowledge.
Like people and animals.
How to volunteer:
Enquire – Contact jane.carmichael@southbucksrda.org or call on 01753 662796 for a volunteer application form. You are welcome to come and visit us to get more of a feel for our volunteer roles.
Apply – Complete the application form and return it to the office. Please alert your 2 referees that they need to return references quickly, complete a DBS check online, and bring in your identification documents for checking.
Training – Attend a ‘green card introductory training session’, annual volunteer training, and National RDA training, including safeguarding when offered.
Volunteering – Sign up for the classes you are available to support, become part of a team and community, and remember to notify the Centre if you are unable to attend a session. You will be fully supported by our friendly team!