Retraining of Racehorses receives £321,000 grant from the Racing Foundation and the John Pearce Foundation
Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) is delighted to announce that it has received a £321,000 grant from the Racing Foundation and the John Pearce Foundation for its project, ‘Improving the Framework to Support Horses’ First Step Out of Training’, which is being delivered in partnership with HEROS. This vital funding will cover the project’s costs for one year and allow RoR to continue its crucial work in ensuring the welfare of former racehorses transitioning to second careers.
This co-funded grant, split evenly between the Racing Foundation and the John Pearce Foundation, marks a significant step in the development of the industry’s aftercare provisions. The project aims to establish a structured and transparent system to support horses as they leave racing, providing clear pathways and signposting to best practices in rehoming and retraining.
David Catlow, Managing Director of RoR, expressed RoR’s gratitude for the grant funding, saying: “We are extremely grateful to the Racing Foundation and the John Pearce Foundation for their generous support. This grant is critical in enabling us to build a solid framework for the aftercare of racehorses.
“It is important to note that this is bridge funding for just one year. The long-term sustainability of this project relies on a collaborative funding model from the racing industry, which we are working hard with industry to secure.”
The project will include several key initiatives, including the development of a formal assessment process for retiring horses, the creation of a Retrainer Approval Scheme, the continuation of the Retraining Assessment Programme, in collaboration with HEROS Charity, and the employment of a welfare support officer, part funded with the Horse Racing Levy Board. These initiatives are designed to reduce the likelihood of former racehorses ending up in unsuitable homes and provide them with every opportunity for a successful transition.
Tansy Challis, Chief Executive of the Racing Foundation, commented: “RoR’s ‘Improving the Framework to Support Horses’ First Step Out of Training’ project provides a direct response to a number of the recommendations of the Aftercare Funding Review that the Racing Foundation funded, including focusing on the processes to ensure retiring racehorses have a smooth transition out of racing. The project also directly aligns with the Racing Foundation’s grant-making strategy, which includes a focus on supporting collaborative and strategic approaches to horse welfare and aftercare within the racing industry. This project is a crucial part of the efforts to ensure the long-term wellbeing of retired racehorses and highlights the positive impact that the racing industry can have on the lives of former racehorses.”
Anna Powell, Charity Officer at the John Pearce Foundation, said: “The John Pearce Foundation is delighted to jointly fund this key aftercare initiative with the Racing Foundation. An industry-aligned approach to aftercare is what the industry needs and by giving horses the best possible transition out of their racing career and into their next chapter, long term welfare issues will be significantly reduced. The business case and outcomes from this bridge funding will hopefully secure the industry’s commitment going forward.”
Grace Muir, founder of HEROS Charity, one of RoR’s key partners for this initiative, added: “We are incredibly proud to continue our partnership with RoR for the third year of the Retraining Assessment Programme. At HEROS, we recognise that it is essential to provide the necessary support for horses transitioning from racing to second careers. HEROS has long-standing experience in this complex area and by working together with RoR, we are able to offer a comprehensive, structured approach to aftercare that prioritises the horse’s welfare and sets them up for and protection and success in their new life.”
As part of the launch, a short film has been created detailing the project’s aims and the difference it will make for horses and the industry. The film is available to watch at https://youtu.be/wbVXA9O2vrY
To find out more information please see the link below:
