Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) UK is working closely with local trustees and stakeholders to help secure the future of the RDA Unicorn Centre in Middlesbrough, following the recent announcement that the Centre was at risk of closure.
For nearly 30 years, the Unicorn Centre has provided life-changing opportunities through horses, supporting people with physical and learning disabilities, sensory impairments, long-term health conditions, and neurodiversity. The strong public response to recent news demonstrates how deeply valued the Centre is within the community it serves.
National Trend Affecting Charitable RDA Centres
The challenges facing the Unicorn Centre reflect a wider national trend, with rising costs putting pressure on equestrian facilities across the UK. Charitable RDA centres like the Unicorn Centre, which provide therapeutic riding and inclusive equine activities, are particularly vulnerable despite their proven impact on health, wellbeing, and social inclusion for disabled people.
RDA UK supports over 390 member groups and thousands of volunteers nationwide to deliver equine-assisted activities. In response to the Unicorn Centre’s urgent situation, the national charity has stepped in to provide short-term support, but stresses that the Centre’s long-term survival must be led and owned by the local community.
RDA UK CEO Calls for Local Leadership
“The Unicorn Centre has long been a vital and influential part of the RDA community, providing life-changing opportunities for disabled people and their families,” said Michael Bishop, CEO of RDA UK. “Its impact over nearly three decades is a direct result of the dedication and leadership shown by local trustees, staff, volunteers and supporters. While the scale and importance of the Centre compel RDA UK to act, our national team’s role is to provide short-term stability, not long-term management. The Centre’s future must be led and secured by the local community. We can only create a sustainable future if new trustees, volunteers and donors step forward now to build on this proud legacy and ensure the Unicorn Centre continues its vital work for generations to come.”
Immediate Support and Recovery Plan
This immediate support is ensuring continuity of sessions for participants and volunteers whilst work continues to appoint a permanent operations manager, recruit additional trustees, and develop a long-term recovery plan. RDA UK is grateful to the local trustees who have remained during this difficult time, acknowledging their dedication and the many volunteer hours given to help keep the Centre going. RDA UK also thanks FRP Advisory for their vital assistance during this process.
The Impact of RDA Services
The need for RDA’s services has never been greater. Disabled adults are nearly twice as likely as their non-disabled peers to experience loneliness and social isolation, and many face poor mental wellbeing. RDA’s activities have a measurable impact:
- 90% of participants gain confidence
- 88% improve posture, balance, and coordination
- 80% of parents and carers say these changes would not have happened without RDA
How You Can Help
The future of the Unicorn Centre depends on local leadership and community action. RDA UK and the Unicorn Centre are calling on individuals, businesses, and supporters across the region to step forward at this critical time.
“Now, more than ever, we need people with business experience to join as trustees including forming a short-term project board, volunteers with time to give, and donors who can contribute financially,” said Michael Bishop. “Our role is to steady the ship, but its long-term direction must come from the community it serves. The future of the Unicorn Centre, and the health and wellbeing of those who rely on it, will only be secured through local commitment, leadership, and collective effort.”
Get Involved
If you are interested in supporting the RDA Unicorn Centre as a trustee, volunteer, or donor, please visit the RDA Unicorn Centre website for more information on how you can help secure the Centre’s future.
About RDA UK: The Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) UK is a national charity supporting over 390 member groups across the UK, providing equine-assisted activities for disabled people. Through therapeutic riding and inclusive equine activities, RDA improves health, wellbeing, and social inclusion for thousands of participants nationwide.
