TESTIMONIALS
“If you’re thinking about getting involved as a new volunteer, its’ a good idea to come to one of the sessions to watch and see for yourself what’s going on. You can chat with the other volunteers. It’s best for the children who come if they see familiar faces each time, so it’s great if people can commit to coming on a regular basis.”
“You get professional training when you start as a volunteer. I think it gives volunteers more confidence in themselves because they’ve been given more instructions about what to do in any given circumstance.”
“I have had quite a lot of experience with horses in the past and I was also a full time school-teacher at one time. Having found that I now have a little more 'spare' time volunteering for the RDA was definitely appealing as I like to do something which is 'hands-on'. Working with disabled children is a new experience for me, but riding is also a new experience for them too. Horse riding is very therapeutic physically and for the children it is also a chance for them to forget their 'everyday' problems as they focus on the challenges and pleasure horse-riding gives them. For one little girl it is the chance to leave the confines of her wheelchair and be free of its restrictions and she smiles all the time. I love seeing the pleasure the time with the horses gives all of them. . I would definitely recommend this as a very rewarding experience”.
“I found the training and selection process were just fine. As a teacher and owning a horse I had experience of being in contact with children and working in similar environments. Mainly what I did get from the training I received was how to ensure the safety of myself and those around me.I think generally the riders receive a big boost from the sessions. The contact with the horses, learning something new which helps them physically and receiving praise are but a few of the perks. They enjoy the games and competitions and it is actually possible to see how much they have progressed when you look back.”
“I would definitely recommend Wyre Forest Riders. For me I enjoy the knowledge that I am giving back and I am making a positive difference in someone’s life. I think things you learn at these sessions can help with behaviours and confidence. It is all linked.”
I recently started volunteering at Wyre Forest Riders RDA and I am enjoying it.
The physical and mental health disabilities of the children are all different so it is very interesting to watch how they improve and enjoy the lessons.
The group is well organized and follows strict rules to ensure riders and staff are safe.
It is very rewarding to see the children improve ad enjoy themselves.
The physical and mental health disabilities of the children are all different so it is very interesting to watch how they improve and enjoy the lessons.
The group is well organized and follows strict rules to ensure riders and staff are safe.
It is very rewarding to see the children improve ad enjoy themselves.
“I found the training and selection to be unchallenging and quite straightforward. I think the riders benefit immensely from the sessions and being with the horses. Not only are they given an opportunity for such an extracurricular activity but also they are able to develop physically. Their muscles and balance improve whilst they enjoy interacting with others and forming bonds. I appreciate seeing each child develop and go from strength to strength. I find that they look forward to the sessions and once they gain new skills we can all share the enjoyment of the moment.”
“I have been volunteering with Wyre Forest Riders for 5 years. I initially got involved after I attended a talk given by a RDA member and felt it was something that I could do. The selection and training processes were fairly easy. I did not have much experience with either horses or disabled children so had a lot to learn, but it has been fun doing so. Most people like to have the chance to help others and helping out at RDA is a great way to do that.”
