Volunteer Testimonials
Catherine Shipton
"It's a real win-win situation. We as volunteers learn so much from each other, and for me, not having a horsey background, l've learned so many new skills grooming and tacking up, and learning to relate to the ponies. I know l've gained in confidence. Everyone is so willing to help and not judge and it makes for a lovely atmosphere.
Encouraging the children whatever their skill level is a joy. Seeing their confidence grow weekly is amazing, especially when a child has been anxious or resistant and in a few weeks is singing their head off happily, like a different child. It's the magic of the ponies and l know we all benefit from it."
Dominique Moussu
"The RDA charity organisation is an eye opener for me who comes from Paris. New volunteers are warmly welcomed and this spirit of congeniality is then radiant for all involved to witness. By that, I mean, every child, laughing and even singing, sitting tall and proud on their ponies, who, themselves, enjoy the fuss that we all gladly afford them too! It’s fun, and this fun is shared by all of us, volunteers and skilful and attentive teachers, which makes us feel good. So, Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share the experience."
Sue Lombard
"Volunteers also learn a lot from each other, from the coaches and all the great training / docs that is given to us from Anne, Jane and Emma. Thank you Everyone is willing to help each other in getting the ponies ready for the classes and then taking them back to the paddocks and tidying up afterwards. It’s great teamwork 😄."
Jan Scully
"What I enjoy about volunteering at Bank Farm is meeting friends who also love the same things I do. Being with the ponies and spending time with children who have such beautiful souls and the benefit the ponies have on them. Seeing even just the slightest progress over time is so rewarding and humbling. Enjoying seeing the fun that both volunteers, children and carers can have."
Zoe Danecker
"I have been a Volunteer with Bank Farm RDA since 2019 and also recently became a Trustee. Being involved in this wonderful Charity has been one of the most rewarding and fulfilling things I have ever done.
The rewards from being a volunteer are far greater than anything that money can buy. Seeing children in their happy place, smiles on their faces and growing confidence in their stride every week is amazing. Some may be very unsure when they first start, but soon feel safe, secure and of course very comfy on top of their beautiful, safe and patient pony. Often they tell me that they forget their troubles when Saturday morning sessions come, especially if they have had a bad week. It is a joy to get to know the children and of course their families too. Just as important is the volunteer family. New friendships made, young and old.
We have become a really great team and always welcome new volunteers to it with open arms. There is no previous experience needed around horses. Therefore its an ideal place to learn the basics, in a very happy relaxed and fun environment, whilst being part of something amazing. "
Juliet Bury
"Seeing all the fantastic people at RDA and making a difference to individual lives’; from seeing the smile on a child’s face when they may struggle to communicate with you in that moment, to a parent or volunteer who welcomes a 5 minute adult chat and to be able to ask them how they are and how their week has been, to the trainers who work tirelessly to ensure everyone is included, welcomed and able to support in their own unique way and last but not least, the beautiful horses, who never let any of us down and try their best every week and who bring a sense of calm, grounding and peace to every one of us at the end of a busy week; these are the many reasons why I volunteer. Thankyou RDA!"
