RDA Causeway Coast and Glens saddles up with Eakin Healthcare Support

Riders from the Causeway Coast and Glens Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) are set to saddle up in style thanks to a funding boost from Eakin Healthcare’s Working Together, Improving Lives community fund.

Eakin Healthcare launched the fund late last year to support local community groups nominated by employees, helping to make a tangible difference in the areas where the company operates. As a family-owned business, Eakin Healthcare designs, manufactures, and supplies medical devices for ostomy, respiratory, and surgical needs. With products and services available in over 60 countries, Eakin Healthcare operates from sites and subsidiaries across the UK, Ireland, France, Germany, Japan, and the Benelux region. All manufacturing takes place in the UK, with core facilities located in Cardiff, Comber, and Coleraine.

RDA Causeway Coast and Glens is one of 16 community groups selected to receive support in the first wave of funding, which will see clubs benefit across Ireland (north and south), Scotland, England, and Wales.

As the group prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary this year, the funding will help them continue their vital work, providing hundreds of recreational and therapeutic riding opportunities annually for individuals with disabilities (physical & psychological) and those facing challenges and/or disadvantage, in Coleraine and the surrounding areas. The funding has allowed the Charity to purchase a specially designed sheepskin padded saddle which enhances the rider experience through greater feel of the horse movement and rhythm, and so maximising the therapeutic and physical benefits.

Riding helps strengthen muscles, improve coordination, balance and posture, and the rhythmic motion of the horse can help riders with conditions like cerebal palsy and spina bifida to improve motor skills and joint mobility.

It also has significant cognitive and psychological benefits, boosting confidence, reducing stress and helping with emotional regulation. The new saddle will contribute directly to improving quality of life for many local disabled riders.

Barbara Robertson, Director of Operations, RDA Causeway Coast and Glens, expressed her gratitude at the donation: “We are incredibly grateful for this funding which has enabled us to buy this fantastic saddle – a piece of equine equipment we have much longed for - it will have a significant impact on the physical & emotional health and wellbeing of our riders. Thank you!”

The club was nominated for funding by Eakin Healthcare’s Warehouse Supervisor, Philip Clyde, who explains why it’s a cause close to his heart: "My daughter and I have been volunteering at RDA Causeway Coast & Glens for years, and the work they do is truly incredible. The joy and laughter they bring to so many children is heartwarming. Watching the kids experience the simple yet profound happiness of touching and riding the horses is amazing. It’s not just the children who benefit - seeing the smiles on their faces brings so much joy to their parents, too. The fun and connection these animals create is something truly special.

"I’m delighted that Eakin Healthcare has been able to provide the financial support to allow them to purchase the new saddle, which will make a difference to the lives of so many children."

Through initiatives like Working Together, Improving Lives, Eakin Healthcare continues to invest in the wellbeing of communities, ensuring that organisations like RDA Causeway Coast and Glens can keep providing crucial support where it’s needed most.