British Equestrian has published its latest Horses for All progress update, highlighting the work taking place to improve inclusion, accessibility and participation across the equestrian sector.
The update provides insight into how British Equestrian and its member bodies are working to create a more welcoming environment for everyone involved with horses, including riding schools, livery yards, coaches, volunteers and equestrian businesses.
The Horses for All strategy was launched in December 2023 with the aim of widening participation and ensuring that people from all backgrounds have opportunities to experience horses and equestrian sport.
This was followed by the introduction of the Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) in September 2024, establishing a four-year framework to support long-term improvements across the federation.
For riding schools and livery yards, the strategy represents a continued focus on making equestrian environments more accessible, welcoming and supportive for riders, owners, staff, volunteers and visitors.
Why Inclusion Matters for Riding Schools and Livery Yards
Riding schools and livery yards are often the first point of contact for people entering the equestrian world.
Creating environments where people feel welcome and supported can help encourage more people to take part, whether they are attending their first riding lesson, looking for a place to keep their horse, or returning to riding after a break.
British Equestrian highlights that horses can provide significant physical, mental and social benefits, with equestrianism estimated to contribute £1.2 billion in annual social value.
For riding schools and yards, improving accessibility and inclusion can help strengthen communities, attract new participants and ensure that equestrian opportunities are available to a wider audience.
Key Developments Supporting the Equestrian Community
The progress update highlights several areas of work that could have relevance for riding schools, livery yards and other equestrian businesses, including:
- A new federation-wide rulebook with strengthened anti-discrimination policies.
- Continued development of safeguarding systems, including the Safe to Play platform and reporting tools.
- Equity, diversity and inclusion training for staff, volunteers and member organisations.
- Improved collection of diversity data to help measure progress.
- Inclusive learning resources, including short animations designed to support awareness and education.
- Community projects aimed at introducing new people to horses and equestrian activities.
These developments are designed to support a culture where everyone involved with horses understands the importance of respect, safety and inclusion.
Community Projects Bringing More People into Equestrianism
The report also highlights projects designed to introduce new communities to horses and demonstrate the wider benefits of equestrian activity.
Examples include the Active Madrassah partnership with The Pony Club, which has provided opportunities for young people from culturally diverse backgrounds to experience horses, and programmes delivered with Sport in Mind, using equestrian activities to support people experiencing mental health challenges.
For riding schools and yards, these initiatives demonstrate the potential role that equestrian facilities can play within their local communities.
Many riding schools and livery yards already provide important social spaces, offering opportunities for people to build confidence, develop skills and form connections through their shared interest in horses.
What Could This Mean for Riding Schools and Livery Yards?
While the Horses for All strategy does not introduce immediate requirements for individual yards or riding schools, it reflects a wider movement across the equestrian sector towards greater accessibility and good practice.
Businesses and facilities may wish to consider how they can continue to create positive experiences by:
- Ensuring policies and procedures support a welcoming environment.
- Making information clear and accessible for new and existing clients.
- Supporting staff and volunteers with appropriate training.
- Encouraging respectful behaviour among riders, owners and visitors.
- Considering practical ways to make facilities more accessible where possible.
Small changes can make a significant difference in helping people feel included and confident within the equestrian community.
Continuing Progress Across the Industry
British Equestrian acknowledges that, while progress has been made, there is still further work required as the federation and its member bodies continue through the four-year DIAP programme.
Rebecca Gibson, Head of Development and Inclusion at British Equestrian, said:
“It’s important that anyone can be inspired and benefit from the incredible power of horses, and our whole federation is committed to this. We’re proud to celebrate progress made so far in continuing to break down barriers and create an experience based on inclusion but we know there is more to be done.”
As the Horses for All strategy develops, riding schools and livery yards will continue to play an important role in shaping the future of equestrian participation.
By creating welcoming, supportive and inclusive environments, equestrian businesses can help ensure that more people have the opportunity to experience the benefits of horses.