Feb 2026
Mechanical Horse Donation
Mechanical Horse Donation Announced for Highland Group RDA.
A Major Boost for Highland Group RDA: Mechanical Horse Donation Announced
Highland Group Riding for the Disabled (RDA) is delighted to announce a significant step forward for our charity, following confirmation that we have been selected as one of the nominated charities for the 2026 Highland Cross.
As part of this support, Highland Group RDA will receive funding for a mechanical horse — a transformative piece of equipment that will be the first of its kind in the Highland area and will benefit every participant who comes through our programme.
This achievement recognises the value of our work supporting children and adults with physical disabilities, learning disabilities, autism, and mental health conditions through therapeutic riding and equine-based activities.
What the Mechanical Horse Means for Our Riders
From a participant’s point of view, nothing changes about the care, encouragement, and support they receive. Behind the scenes, however, the mechanical horse will allow us to do much more.
The equipment carefully simulates the natural movement of a horse while providing a controlled, indoor environment. This means new riders can safely experience the sensation of being on a horse, often for the very first time, while building confidence, balance, and core strength.
It also allows our coaches and volunteers to introduce riding skills such as transitions between halt, walk, and trot in a calm, supportive setting. For many participants, this can be a crucial stepping stone before riding a live pony — or a valuable therapeutic activity in its own right.
Opening the Door to More People
One of the most exciting aspects of this donation is how it expands access.
The mechanical horse will enable Highland Group RDA to welcome more children and adults, including those who may not yet be ready to ride outdoors or who benefit from a more predictable environment. Sessions can continue regardless of weather, and participants can engage visually and cognitively through integrated screens while riding.
Every new participant joining the charity will benefit from this equipment, helping us grow in a way that remains safe, inclusive, and supportive.
Our Thanks to Highland Cross
We are deeply grateful to Highland Cross, its volunteers, supporters, and the Independent Charity Selection Panel for recognising the impact of our work and investing in its future.
This donation is more than a piece of equipment — it is an investment in confidence, wellbeing, and opportunity for people across the Highlands who benefit from Riding for the Disabled.
We look forward to sharing updates as plans progress and to welcoming even more riders to Highland Group RDA in the year ahead. We would like to thank everyone who has donated both large and small amounts, enabling the group to sustain the sessions which provide such wonderful benefit to many in our disabled community and through which they have an opportunity to realise far greater potential than would otherwise be possible.
In order for the Group to continue, please consider becoming a Trustee and creating a new Board. An application form is available from the Group Administrator (info@highlandgrouprda.org.uk), to be returned as soon as possible and preferably by the end of January 2026.