24th March 2020
Local Charity (Charity No: 1073553) call for help after Corona Virus closure
New Lodge Riding for the Disabled in Mottingham is a charity that provides therapy through horses to local disabled people – all supported by a team of dedicated volunteers.
In accordance with the lock-down New Lodge RDA are suspending all activities until further notice. Group Chair Dot Johnson says “We support and work with many people who may be more vulnerable to infection and we must close our doors until the situation with Corona Virus improves. This comes at a big price for us, as without riders we have not got an income.
Our loyal horses will still need feed, hay, and to see a farrier – possibly even care from the vets which all adds up. With no clear idea of when we will be able to start activities again it is difficult to know if we will have enough money to support our horses until riding resumes.”
New Lodge currently has 11 horses who support up to 60 riders – adults and children – each week. Research shows horse riding with RDA is not only fun but delivers physical benefits, boosts confidence, improves communication skills and helps participants to build relationships.
The impact this will have on some of our riders, who gain so much from attending our sessions, is huge – both physically and mentally. It has never been so clear just how much the time they spend with our horses helps. In a bid to ensure these sessions can continue as quickly as possible we need to keep our horses well cared for, in work and fit.
At this difficult time, we plead with the local community to help New Lodge RDA by donating what you can to help keep the charity running. Anything you can give would be very much welcome – we spend on average £25 each week on the care of each horse.
If you can support New Lodge RDA please make a donation New Lodge RDA, New Lodge Centre, Mottingham Lane, SE9 4RW; or contact us on phone number 02088516447 for further information, or arrange a Bank Transfer..