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  • Apply to become a volunteer for our Therapeutic Riding Programme

    Please complete this form to apply to volunteer with the Therapeutic Riding programme at Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club (ADEC).

    Our volunteers are an essential part of every session, walking alongside participants and horses to help create a safe, encouraging environment where confidence can grow.

    No previous equestrian experience is required, full training and support are provided by our Therapeutic Riding Instructor and support team. It is a rewarding way to assist with mounted and unmounted sessions, be part of meaningful moments, meet like-minded people, and see first-hand the difference horses can make.

    What You Will Need

    • Personal details: Full name, date of birth, nationality, Emirates ID / passport / visa number, current occupation or student status, email and phone number.
    • Health information: Details of any medical conditions, allergies, or physical considerations that may affect your ability to walk alongside a horse for extended periods.
    • Experience and qualifications: Any previous experience with horses or with individuals with additional needs, relevant qualifications, and first aid or CPR certification details, if applicable.
    • Availability: Your general availability, the days and times you can commit, hours per week, and how long you're able to volunteer for.
    • Two references: Full name, relationship to you, contact number and email for two people who can provide a reference.
    • Background check consent: You'll be asked to confirm your willingness to undergo a background or police clearance check as part of our safeguarding process.

  • SECTION 1: Personal Information

  • Date of birth*
     / /
    2 digit day, 2 digit month, 4 digit year
  •  -

  • SECTION 2: Health & Physical Fitness

    Volunteers must be physically capable of supporting riders with disabilities.

  • Do you have any physical limitations that may affect your ability to walk alongside a horse for extended periods?*
  • Do you have any medical conditions we should be aware of?*
  • Are you allergic to horses, hay, or animal dander?*
  • Can you comfortably walk on uneven terrain for 1–2 hours?*
  • Are you able to lift or support an individual if required?*

  • SECTION 3: Experience & Background

  • Do you have any prior experience working with horses?*
  • Do you have any experience working with individuals with physical, cognitive, or developmental disabilities?*
  • Have you previously volunteered in a therapeutic, medical, or care setting?*
  • Do you hold any relevant qualifications? (e.g. physiotherapy, occupational therapy, psychology, special education, equine studies)*
  • Have you completed any first aid or CPR training?*

  • SECTION 4: Availability & Commitment

    Criteria suggestion: minimum 3-month commitment, at least one session per week.

  • What is your availability?*
  • Are you available for training sessions and orientation prior to starting?*
  • Do you have reliable transport to reach the facility?*

  • SECTION 5: Motivation & Suitability

  • SECTION 6: References

    Two references required (not family members).

  • SECTION 7: Safeguarding & Compliance

    Criteria suggestion: all volunteers working with vulnerable populations must clear background checks.

  • Do you consent to a background / police clearance check?*
  • Have you ever been subject to a disciplinary or safeguarding investigation?*
  • Are you willing to adhere to the programme's safeguarding and confidentiality policies?*
  • Are you willing to complete mandatory safeguarding training before starting?*

  • SECTION 8: Social Media & Communications

  • Are you willing to follow the programme's social media and photography policy regarding clients?*
  • Would you be happy to be contacted about future events or campaigns?*
  • Should be Empty: