Youngsters Saddle Up to Build Confidence

Young people from different backgrounds came together through a shared passion for horses as the first event in a new collaboration between Riding for the Disabled Association and Power of Polo.

The event welcomed young people from Power of Polo and The Diamond Centre RDA to for a day focused on connection, confidence-building and shared experiences through horses.

The visit marked the beginning of an initiative designed to explore the impact horses can have in bringing people together and helping young people build confidence, self- belief, aspiration, and meaningful connections across very different environments and life experiences.

RDA is a UK-wide charity working with disabled people and those with long-term conditions to improve health, wellbeing, and life opportunities through access to horses; while Power of Polo is a grassroots charity using polo as a tool for social impact with young people facing social, economic and health challenges.

At the event participants spent time riding, caring for horses, meeting new people and sharing experiences in a welcoming and supportive environment.

But for many young people involved, the impact of horses stretches far beyond a single day.

Several participants spoke about how equine activity has transformed their confidence, mental wellbeing and sense of belonging.

Josiah, a rider and volunteer from Park Lane Stables RDA, said the support he has found through horses has been life changing. Diagnosed with autism and dyspraxia, he described Park Lane as a place where he feels fully included and valued.

“I’m not separated or treated differently - I’m just a rider and part of a team,” said Josiah.

“The horses help me feel calm, confident and understood, and being here has completely changed how I see myself and what I believe I can achieve.”

Since joining RDA, Josiah has gone on to compete in regional and national competitions, volunteer at the stables and take part in wider equestrian programmes and leadership opportunities.

Kaira, who first joined Power of Polo in 2023, said being around horses has helped her overcome anxiety and develop confidence she never thought possible.

“Before Power of Polo I would never have imagined speaking publicly or meeting new people with confidence,” said Kaira.

“Horses gave me something to believe in and helped me realise I’m capable of far more than I thought.”

Kaira has since become a Power of Polo Youth Ambassador and has represented the charity publicly at major equestrian events.

The collaboration between RDA and Power of Polo will continue over the coming months, taking participants through a range of equine experiences on a structured three-part journey – from urban stables to elite polo and national inclusive competition.

The next stage of the exchange will take place on June 19 at Guards Polo Club in Windsor, where RDA participants will attend the annual Change Your Line Cup charity tournament hosted by Power of Polo. The collaboration will conclude at the RDA National Championships in Hartpury, Gloucestershire from July 10 to 12.

For more information visit https://rda.org.uk/ or https://www.powerofpolo.org.uk/