The RDA is a welcoming equestrian centre that gives disabled people of all ages the chance to experience the joy of horse riding and care and develop a real connection with animals. 

From the moment Brooklyn started, it was clear this was a place where he could grow, learn, and do things that he’s really passionate about. 

Mucking in at the stables 

Brooklyn has been working at the RDA for four months as a stable hand, helping out with the day-to-day care of the horses. 

His role includes a lot of tasks like getting hay off the bales, filling hay bags, cleaning stable tools, refreshing horses’ water bowls, and changing bedding once the horses head out to meet riders. 

He’s also part of a small team of other people with learning disabilities, working alongside staff to keep everything running smoothly. Brooklyn has quickly made connections with everyone he works with; known for being kind, chatty, and very caring. 

Brooklyn brings a real enthusiasm to everything he does. He’s friendly, always keen to muck in (quite literally!), and always asking what he can do next. His eagerness to build on his knowledge of horse care has really shone through, with him showing initiative and picking up new skills along the way. 

Building his skills and finding his confidence 

Alongside his hands-on work, Brooklyn has recently completed a Level 1 Horse Care course, learning all about different parts of the horse and the equipment used around the stables. After proudly earning his L1 certificate, he’s now working towards Level 2. 

Lindsey, who runs the Horse Care course at the RDA says: “He was always so full of enthusiasm and joined in with every activity.” 

One of his standout moments so far has been leading a horse from the stables to the school for the first time, and he’s now looking forward to doing this as much as he can. 

Brooklyn especially enjoys the physical, outdoor side of the role. When asked what he enjoys the most about working at the RDA, Brooklyn kept it short and sweet: spending time with the horses and making friends. 

A place where Brooklyn can be himself 

Emily, Brooklyn’s Job Coach Tutor, has really seen how much his time at the RDA has meant to him and has built his confidence around other people: 

“It is such a joy to see him arrive in the morning and get stuck into filling hay bags, waiting for the others to arrive. He sometimes finds it hard to articulate what he is feeling or what he thinks about something, but he always has a go. He greets everyone with such cheer and positivity, and he’s learned so much.” 

At Erme Valley RDA, Brooklyn is surrounded by people with similar interests in a supportive, inclusive environment where he’s encouraged to be proactive and trust in his abilities.  

Aside from finding a part-time paid position at a stable, his long-term goal is to work his way up to riding a horse himself. And with the progress he’s already made, he’s well on his way! 

Learn more about our Supported Employment services; Supported employment – United Response