Riding for the Disabled Vaulting

Aim

This exciting project will add equestrian vaulting to our therapeutic equestrian activities, a fun way to improve fitness and balance.

Who are we?

We offer equestrian activities that provide remedial and therapeutic activities for adults and children from the Ipswich & East Suffolk area with physical and learning disabilities; and social, emotional and mental health issues including autism. We propose to add equestrian vaulting to our existing portfolio of activities. We are unique in the area in that we operate all year-round from a purpose-built centre using our own horses.

Why are we crowdfunding?

At RDA Woodbridge, we don’t receive regular funding for projects like this, everything we offer is made possible through grants, donations, and the generosity of our community.

We’re thrilled to share that Sport England has pledged £13,750 towards our new vaulting project but this is just half of what we need. We will only be given this money if we can raise the same amount ourselves. This is why we are crowd funding.

We know what a huge difference vaulting sessions will make to the quality of our participants’ lives. Every pound you give is doubled, bringing us one step closer to launching this exciting new opportunity.

Your support doesn’t just help us reach our £27,500 target; it helps us change lives.

How we’ll spend the money raised

Every penny raised will help us transform our facilities and equip RDA Woodbridge to deliver safe, inclusive, and inspiring vaulting sessions. This includes adapting an existing barn into a dedicated space for floor exercises, barrel work, and simulator training, all essential components of vaulting that build strength, coordination, and confidence before participants move onto the horse.

We’ll invest in equipment which includes a vaulting barrel, impact absorbent mats and a mechanical simulator, which allows for safe practice and can be used in all weather conditions. The simulator also helps preserve our horses’ wellbeing and offers valuable training opportunities for riders and vaulters alike.

Funding will also support volunteer training and coach development, to ensure our horses, coaches and sessions meet the highest standards. Combined with Sport England’s support, the fundraising target will cover the full cost and give our participants the facilities they deserve. Every contribution helps us create a welcoming, well-equipped space where participants can thrive.

Community impact

Introducing vaulting at RDA Woodbridge will open up new, inclusive opportunities for children and adults living with disabilities across Suffolk. This dynamic sport blends movement, music, and teamwork, offering physical, mental, and social benefits in a fun, supportive environment.

Here’s how our community will benefit:

•    Physical wellbeing: Vaulting builds strength, balance, flexibility, and coordination.

•    Mental health: It boosts confidence, focus, and self-esteem, while encouraging discipline and resilience.

•    Social connection: Sessions foster teamwork, trust, and camaraderie, helping participants form lasting friendships.

•    Inclusivity: Vaulting is accessible to non-riders and offers a fresh alternative to traditional riding, allowing us to welcome more participants.

•    Sustainability: The simulator and indoor setup reduce pressure on horses and allow sessions to continue in all weather, ensuring consistency and satisfaction.

This project will help us grow our reach, deepen our impact, and offer even more ways for our community to thrive.

How you can play your part

There are four simple ways to help us reach our target and make this project a reality. Help us take the next step together.

1.    Make a donation.  Every donation, big or small makes a difference. Early support is powerful, it helps build momentum, unlock opportunities and inspire others to join in. If you’re thinking of giving, please don’t wait, make a donation today. Because once we reach 50% of our target, Sport England will match it, doubling your impact and unlocking the full funding that we need to get started. 

2.     Spread the word. The more people who hear about our project, the more support we can build. Every share counts! Post and share on your socials, share with friends, family, neighbours and work colleagues. Drop it in a group chat or mention it over coffee! Together we can make amazing things happen!

3.    Offer rewards. Are you a local business with something wonderful to offer? We’re inviting you to get involved by donating a product, service, or experience that we can share with our amazing supporters. It’s a win-win: You’ll be helping a community project and we’ll give you a big, public shout-out to celebrate your generosity! Whether it’s a voucher, a treat, or a unique experience, your support helps us raise vital funds and build momentum.

4.    Fancy doing your own fundraiser for us? Have you got a brilliant (or bonkers) idea to raise money? Whether it’s a sponsored silence, a bake-off, a dog walk, or something totally out of the box, we’d love to hear about it!

Setting up your own fundraising page is quick (no bank details needed). Click the ‘Contact Project’ button at the top of the page to get started.

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made