Volunteer Sidewalkers (Orkney Riding for the Disabled Association)

Volunteers are essential for our RDA to run. Giving your time to the group will mean that more disabled people can enjoy the therapy and fun of horses. We are looking for Sidewalkers who walk alongside our Riders helping them get the most from their riding session. The sidewalker works in a team with the horseleader, coach and rider. There are normally 2 sidewalkers for each of our riders.

What could a volunteer gain from the experience?
The opportunity to learn new skills; make a difference; make new friends; be part of a team; enjoy being around horses; improve your fitness; and boost your CV.

Experience required

You don't need to have lots of experience with horses, however you do need to be happy around them. You will also need to be interested in meeting people including our riders (mainly children), other Volunteers, riding instructors and all those who are part of our RDA Group. You need to be physically fit enough to walk around the riding arena to accompany the horses and riders.

Training details

The 2025 spring / summer session starts on Thursday 24 April and run until the 26 June. There will be 2 training sessions to start with for Volunteers (new and returning) and for our horses. These will be held on 24 April and 1 May and it would be useful for new Volunteers (or those considering becoming a Volunteer) to come along to these sessions.

Restrictions

A level of physical fitness is required as most of our Sidewalker Volunteers accompany the Riders and horses around the Riding Centre arena. This is mainly walking, and running skills are not required.

Availability

Frequency & commitment

The spring/summer session starts on Thursday 24 April and will run until 26 June. Volunteers are asked to commit to a term as it gives our riders continuity.

I want to volunteer