British Equestrian Unveiled Ambitious Five-Year Strategy Focused on Equine Welfare
British Equestrian launched an ambitious five-year strategy designed to place equine welfare at the heart of the industry while ensuring the sport remained sustainable, inclusive, and forward-thinking. This comprehensive approach highlighted the federation’s commitment to the well-being of horses and the long-term development of equestrianism in the UK.
The strategy set out a clear vision for the future, ensuring that all decisions and developments were made with the welfare of horses as the primary consideration. British Equestrian took proactive steps to safeguard the ethical treatment and care of equines across all disciplines, from grassroots participation to elite competition. The federation recognised that the equestrian industry must continue to evolve, and this strategy was a key part of that transformation.
One of the central themes of the initiative was sustainability. As environmental concerns grew across all sectors, British Equestrian committed to implementing sustainable practices that would help reduce the sport’s environmental impact. These efforts included reviewing and adapting competition structures, facility management, and operational protocols to ensure they aligned with responsible environmental stewardship.
Another crucial focus was the promotion of inclusivity within the equestrian community. British Equestrian aimed to break down barriers to participation, ensuring that people from all backgrounds and abilities had access to the sport. Increasing diversity and accessibility was a significant part of this strategy, encouraging wider engagement and creating a more welcoming environment across the industry. The organisation acknowledged that equestrianism had historically struggled with inclusivity, and this strategy represented a proactive effort to address those challenges head-on.
Education and development also played a significant role in the five-year plan. British Equestrian invested in providing new resources and training opportunities for riders, coaches, and industry professionals. By enhancing knowledge and skills at all levels, the organisation sought to elevate standards and promote continuous improvement in horse welfare, training methods, and industry best practices.
Jim Eyre, Chief Executive of British Equestrian, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to these key priorities, stating, “Our new strategy is a testament to our dedication to the horse and the sport. By focusing on welfare, sustainability, and inclusivity, we aim to ensure a vibrant future for equestrianism.” His words reflected the federation’s determination to drive positive change and implement meaningful reforms over the five-year period.
The unveiling of this strategy came at a crucial time for the equestrian industry. As the sport faced increasing scrutiny regarding animal welfare and accessibility, British Equestrian took a proactive stance to safeguard its future. This forward-thinking approach not only enhanced the reputation of equestrianism but also ensured that horses remained at the core of all decision-making.
The five-year strategy set a new standard for how the industry should operate, encouraging accountability and responsibility at all levels. It was a bold and necessary step that signalled British Equestrian’s unwavering commitment to its equine partners and the longevity of the sport. With this comprehensive plan in place, the future of British equestrianism looked set to be one of progress, responsibility, and inclusivity, ensuring that it continued to thrive while maintaining the highest possible standards of horse welfare.
