One of our volunteer coaches was awarded Eastern Region Volunteer of 2017 for the Riding for the Disabled.

 

Our Volunteers

Everything at Sugarloaf is done by our lovely group of dedicated volunteers.  Without our them we certainly wouldn’t be able to run our group smoothly and efficiently.  We really value their dedication and commitment, some of our volunteers have been with us for over 25 years.

The more volunteers we have the more lives we can improve.  That’s why we always welcome new volunteers.  If you’re interested, why not come down to meet us and see what we do ?

Volunteers give as much times as they want.  You don’t necessarily  have to have any horse experience, as all volunteers are given basic training and DBS checked.

All our volunteers are from diverse backgrounds ageing  from 12 years upwards.  Some volunteers have been out of work for a number of years, for whatever reason, and need to build up the skills of working in a group before venturing out. Volunteering helps to build up social skills along with team work and organisation skills. Volunteering looks good on you CV too when applying for work outside the volunteering sector, which many of our volunteers have gone on to do.

Some volunteers do work placements with us and we do encourage younger volunteers to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh and YELA awards. Or maybe become coaches themselves with our help, following the RDA National coaching path.  

 

Putting out poles and collecting them in again after lessons is a helpful job

Not interested with working with the horses? There are other jobs which are needed to be done within the group like: being part of the committee or  a group trustee, IT, administration, fundraising skills, or maybe just helping with repairs in your spare time or even poo picking in the field (not the greatest job, but has to be done). Volunteers may also undertake additional courses such as first aid and training days arranged by us and at other RDA groups.

Waiting for the ride to start