The national governing body of equestrianism in the UK hopes to increase diversity in the sport after pledging to make the activity more accessible to everyone.
Together with its 18 member bodies, British Equestrian launched a research project to find out what the barriers are in equestrianism for those from ethnically diverse backgrounds or low socio-economic communities.
Mandana Mehran Pour, British Equestrian’s head of participation, said: “This piece of research will go a long way to helping us and our member bodies to make equestrianism more accessible and inclusive.”
“Everyone deserves to experience the magic of the equine/human bond and the benefits interacting with horses brings,” it was added.
In order to improve accessibility, the organisation has developed a ten-minute online survey to gauge the views and experiences of those who feel underrepresented in this sector.
The Barriers to Participate in Equestrian initiative is hoping to receive responses from 1,000 participants, taken as part of interviews and the online questionnaire. As well as looking at the respondent’s interest in equestrianism, it will try to understand their experience with other physical or leisure activities, and knowledge of the opportunities to work with horses.
Those interested in taking part in the survey can register their interest and receive information regarding the study by clicking here.
Equestrian fans might also want to apply for the organisation’s Sport England-funded Young Professionals Programme 2022/23. These interactive workshops are designed to support those considering a career in the sport, learning about contract-writing, employment law, insurance, conflict management, communication skills, building a brand and running a business in this industry.
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