At Escape the Village, some projects mean just that little bit more, and our work with Tradissar RDA is a perfect example of why we do what we do.
About Tradissar RDA
Tradissar RDA was a small but incredibly impactful Riding for the Disabled group based in Southampton. Like many community-led charities, they rely heavily on volunteers, fundraising, and the goodwill of local supporters to continue delivering life-changing experiences through horses. Founded by a disabled international side saddle rider called Rayna Matthews. Disabled by polio herself she understood the real challenges and passion for riding by those with challenges simply getting into the saddle!
Their work went far beyond riding sessions. It was more about confidence, independence, therapy, and connection, for riders, volunteers, and the wider community.
And of course, for us, anything involving horses already feels like home!
The Challenge
Like many small charities, Tradissar RDA faced a familiar challenge:
- Limited budget for marketing and branding
- A need to attract more sponsors and community support
- Volunteer ran with limited volunteers
- Inconsistent visual identity across events and materials
- No cohesive branded merchandise for volunteers and supporters
They had the passion, the purpose, and the people, but needed support to present themselves in a more professional and visible way to the outside world.
Our Approach: More Than Just Marketing
This project was never about ticking boxes. It was about making a difference. As part of our commitment to community support and giving back, we provided a range of services at discounted rates and, where possible, free through sponsorship, ensuring the charity could benefit from professional marketing without the usual financial barriers.
1. Sponsorship Support
We worked closely with Rayna, her husband Bill and Tradissar RDA to:
- Identify potential local sponsors
- Create clear, compelling messaging about their impact
- Support outreach efforts to attract new partnerships
For charities, sponsorship isn’t just about money (although of course that helps), it’s about building relationships, physical support or services, and long-term support networks. We helped position Tradissar RDA as a cause worth backing.
2. Event Banner Design
First impressions matter, especially at events.
We designed eye-catching, professional event banners that they could use not just at their home base for visitors but also when their riders travelled to competitions:
- Clearly communicated who they are and what they do
- Reflected the warmth and professionalism of the group
- Helped them stand out at shows, fundraising events, and community days
Simple? Yes. Powerful? Absolutely.
3. Branded Clothing (With an Embroidery Partner)
One of the most rewarding parts of this project was bringing their team identity to life.
Working in partnership with a trusted embroidery company, we:
- Designed branded clothing for volunteers and supporters
- Ensured consistency in colours, logos, and presentation
- Managed the process from concept through to delivery
The result? A team that not only feels part of something special, but also looks it. And when volunteers feel proud, that energy spreads to everyone they meet. It was even a way for them to fundraise for their group!
The Results
While this wasn’t a traditional “ROI-driven” commercial project, the impact was clear:
- A stronger, more professional visual identity
- Increased confidence when approaching sponsors
- Improved visibility at events and within the community
- A unified team presence through branded clothing
Most importantly, Tradissar RDA was better equipped to continue its incredible work and reach even more people who can benefit from it.
Why This Matters to Us
At Escape the Village, we believe business should be about more than profit.
It’s about people.
It’s about community.
It’s about making a difference where it counts.
Supporting charities like Tradissar RDA sits at the heart of our values—alongside our passion for rural life, animals, and the communities that bring them together. As highlighted in our wider mission, community support and giving back are not just nice-to-haves, they are part of who we are and how we operate.
And honestly? Any excuse to spend time around horses is always a bonus.
Final Thoughts
This project is a reminder that marketing doesn’t always need to be big, complex, or expensive to be effective.
Sometimes, it’s about:
- Clarity
- Consistency
- Community
And when you combine those with genuine care and a shared purpose, the results speak for themselves. If you’re a charity, community group, or small organisation wondering how to take that next step, we’re always happy to have a conversation. Because the right support, at the right time, can make all the difference.
Do You Need Help or Support?
Speak to us today and discover the difference a combined solution can make with consultancy, coaching and marketing support!