Our mission is to bring about meaningful and positive changes in the health and well-being of people with physical or mental disabilities through activities with our horses and ponies.
Who we are
A community of volunteers, coaches, and horses.
Highland Group RDA is entirely self-funded and run by committed volunteers and qualified coaches. We have been part of the community for over five decades, welcoming riders with a wide range of physical and mental disabilities.
We are a member of the national Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) and the Grampian and Highland Regional RDA, and a registered Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SC007357).
What we do
Riding and so much more.
We provide riding sessions for participants with a wide range of disabilities. Working with horses improves balance, coordination, confidence, and provides a uniquely meaningful interaction with animals.
Sessions run Tuesday to Friday mornings from our base at Sandycroft. Each session is supported by trained volunteers and supervised by qualified coaches.
1975
Founded
50+
Years serving the Highlands
4
Days a week, Tue–Fri
Tue–Fri
Morning sessions
Meet the horses
In their own words.
Highland Group RDA are very proud of the contribution made by our fantastic team of horses. We'll let them introduce themselves.
Remembered fondly
What families say
"Riding helps to correct her posture and protects the spine and hips while it strengthens the muscles. More than that, it gives a sense of achievement and of being just as 'able-bodied' as everyone else on the back of a horse."
"He feels the responsibility of controlling such a large and powerful animal and it helps him understand life just that bit better. It's also very calming for him, especially at the end of a session when he can nurture the horse by brushing her and giving her some hay."
"We cannot thank the team at RDA Highland enough for what they've done for our child. To see only the individual and the pure joy of achievement, and not the disability is a tremendous gift. Our whole family benefits from these sessions. Thank you."
"RDA's gentle, calm and serene atmosphere coupled with the warm sentient creature that she can bond with and enjoy without needing words. I think it helps her to feel calm and grounded and gives a huge sense of achievement. RDA is such an important part of our lives."
Featured story
Samantha's Story
Read how Samantha's RDA sessions have not only improved her physical and mental wellbeing, but helped her overcome her prognosis of never being able to walk.
Find us
Based at Sandycroft, Reelig.
We are based at Sandycroft, Reelig, Kirkhill — on the outskirts of Inverness.
Sandycroft, ReeligKirkhill
IV5 7PP
Sessions: Tuesday to Friday mornings
Contact usWe are able to carry out our life-changing activities thanks to you.
Donate, volunteer, or sponsor a pony — every contribution makes a real difference.