Broadlands Equine Therapy & Riding for the Disabled
About Broadlands RDA
At Broadlands we are dedicated to supporting children and adults with physical disabilities and a wide range of learning difficulties. Our ponies are selected for their calm, caring nature, our RDA qualified coaches work at a pace to suit each participant. Broadlands is one of the longest established Riding for the Disabled groups in the UK. Since 1955 we have been helping our participants enjoy the incredible benefits that spending time with our ponies brings.
The aim of the Broadlands’ team of trained volunteers and RDA coaches is to help our participants gain confidence and achieve goals.
Based in a uniquely calm countryside environment in Medstead near Alton, we offer:
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therapeutic riding lessons,
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carriage driving
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ground based therapy sessions
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Hippotherapy for the under 5’s.
The known benefits include:
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Improved co-ordination
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Improved muscle power
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Improved balance
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Relaxation and sensory feedback through rhythmic movement
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Reduced anxiety being in a calm environment
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Improved social communication and interaction skills
Lead by our Centre Manager, Paige, along with staff, volunteers, supporters and Trustees we work as a huge team to make Broadlands the incredible place it is.
Improving the lives of our participants through working with our ponies
Our History
1955
Today
1961
The current stables were built
The Group became one of the original members of the Advisory Council of Riding for the Disabled, the forerunner of the RDA.
1964
1984
16th May – Princess Anne visited the Group and it rained!
1984
21yrs of RDA Silver awards presented by Princess Anne, at a Regional Celebration, to Harry Hands, Margaret Side, Gerry
Walker and Suzanne. Then on another date Pat Chapman received hers.
The Riding Centre at Broadlands that had been the main financial support of the Group stopped.
2002
2015
Celebration of 60 Years of Broadlands and the presentation to the Stratford family of the Birt Spooner cup for exceptional service.
Flora started class lessons with a group from Woodlarks.
We continue to flourish and grow
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Read our FAQ's to find out more or complete our application form.