Chair of Oxfordshire County Council visits Riding for the Disabled group
A group that provides opportunities for people with a wide range of learning and physical disabilities to experience the physical and social benefits of horse riding has received a special visit.
Councillor Mark Lygo, Chair of Oxfordshire County Council, last week (11 February) visited AIM RDA, the newest Riding for the Disabled Association group in Oxfordshire.
Founded in 2024 by a team of passionate volunteers, AIM RDA is the first new Riding for the Disabled Association group in several years and is already making a significant impact.
Benefits to members include improved balance, coordination, confidence, and wellbeing.
Oxfordshire County Council’s adult social care team works closely with local community organisations as part of the Oxfordshire Way – the council’s approach to helping people live well and independently within their communities.
By supporting initiatives that promote choice, independence and inclusion, we ensure that adults with learning disabilities can access activities that enrich their lives and reduce isolation.
Councillor Mark Lygo, Chair of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “It was inspiring to meet the volunteers and riders at AIM RDA and see the difference they are making firsthand.
“Watching the sessions in action really brought home how much confidence and joy these activities give to people.
“AIM RDA is not just about horse riding – it’s about creating a supportive community where everyone feels included, and I’m proud that Oxfordshire is leading the way in inclusive activities.”
Becci Hutchins, Co-Chair of AIM RDA, said: “We are always happy to share the fantastic work we do at Aim RDA, and it was great to welcome Mark to our sessions at Shrivenham Equestrian Centre.
“RDA provision is oversubscribed in most parts of the UK, so our mission to set up a thriving new group for the Oxfordshire area is incredibly important.
“Our name, “AIM”, stands for our ethos of “ability, independence, motivation” – all of which can be found in action in any of our inclusive riding sessions.”
AIM RDA accepts participants with a diagnosed disability from age eight, with no upper age limit – they welcome adults who are not always included in RDA provision. Riding sessions take place during evenings and weekends, and every application is assessed individually to ensure participants are placed in the most suitable session.
AIM RDA is currently welcoming applications from new riders. If you or someone you know could benefit from these sessions, please get in touch. Whether you’re looking for therapeutic riding at all levels for a broad scope of disabilities, or simply want to enjoy the companionship of horses as a volunteer, AIM RDA offers a safe, community-orientated environment.
AIM RDA has two locations: one in Shrivenham and another in Chilton Foliat.
For more information or to apply, visit: Join Us | AIM RDA.
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