Alongside the strategy, the BHA has also published a summary of new into the experiences of ethnically and culturally diverse people working within the sport.

Together, these publications set out a clear, evidence-based framework for action across the next three years. They aim to strengthen leadership, improve fairness and safety, widen opportunity, and ensure racing remains relevant and competitive in modern Britain.

The strategy is centrally led by the BHA but collectively owned by the sport. It has been developed in collaboration with the sport鈥檚 core stakeholders and participants, as well as the Diversity in Racing Advisory Group. It provides direction, standards and accountability, while recognising that meaningful progress depends on collaboration across leaders, racecourses, jockeys, owners, breeders, trainers, charities and the wider workforce.

The strategy outlines a vision for a sport where everyone feels respected, valued and able to fulfil their potential. It emphasises that making sure that all people feel welcome and included is essential to racing鈥檚 long-term sustainability. It is based on evidence and the experiences of racing鈥檚 workforce, many of whom have positive experiences, but not all.

Key drivers include:

• Workforce sustainability 鈥� attracting and retaining the people racing needs to thrive.
• Relevance to modern Britain 鈥� ensuring the sport reflects and appeals to a broader range of communities.
• Reputational resilience 鈥� meeting the expectations of fans, media, investors and policymakers.
• Commercial advantage 鈥� stronger performance, innovation and audience growth through greater diversity.

The strategy builds on significant progress already made across the sport, including new inclusive career pathways, safeguarding and anti-sexual misconduct training, and the work of racing charities and community groups. However, it also acknowledges that progress has been uneven and that some people have not always felt welcome or supported.

The development of the strategy, and some of the recommendations within it, have been drawn from the sport鈥檚 , published by the Horseracing Industry People Board in February 2025.

The strategy sets out clear, measurable actions that will make a tangible difference to day-to-day experiences across the sport for people across the full spectrum of protected characteristics. These actions include:

• Strengthening leadership and accountability
  • Building more diverse viewpoints into decision-making.
  • Sharing and celebrating best practice.
  • Refreshing and auditing the D&I Industry Commitment.
• Building equitable practices
  • Supporting the future development of an Employer Quality Standard to promote best practice.
  • Improving and simplifying reporting mechanisms for discrimination, including an improved and more responsive system for people to anonymously share concerns (still branded RaceWISE) launching in the coming weeks
  • Improving race day facilities and accessibility for jockeys
• Improving education and awareness
  • Expanding inclusion training for high-impact roles.
  • Launching a visual awareness campaign promoting positive behaviours and challenging discrimination.
  • Introducing continuous learning for senior leaders and Boards.
• Better supporting and celebrating underrepresented groups
  • Targeted actions to support ethnically and culturally diverse colleagues, including language support.
  • Removing barriers for female and ethnically diverse jockeys through the Rider Development Pathway and Racing Home.
  • Launching a Leadership Development Programme for underrepresented groups.
• Engaging new audiences
  • Embedding diversity objectives into consumer engagement and social impact initiatives.
  • Building partnerships to diversify early careers programmes.
  • Providing best practice guidance on inclusive marketing.

These actions will be delivered through a phased implementation plan running to 2028, with transparent reporting and regular review.

The accompanying ethnicity research summary draws on three independent studies conducted between 2023 and 2025. While many people from ethnically and culturally diverse backgrounds report positive experiences in racing, the research also highlights negative experiences, barriers to progression (which are often hidden), inconsistent support, and a lack of trust in reporting systems. We are grateful to all research participants for their contribution.

These findings have helped contribute to the new strategy and will inform a dedicated ethnic and cultural diversity action plan to be developed with industry leaders and people with lived experience.

The strategy has been launched with support from industry stakeholders including the National Association of Racing Staff (NARS), National Trainers Federation (NTF), Professional Jockeys Association (PJA), Racecourse Association (RCA), Racehorse Owners Association (ROA) and Thoroughbred Breeders Association (TBA).

It has also been developed with collaboration from racing鈥檚 various industry charities which support various diverse groups within the industry.

QUOTES

Brant Dunshea, Chief Executive of the BHA said:

“British racing is at its best when it is open, welcoming and reflective of the society around us. 听This strategy about the long-term health and success of our sport. To attract talent, fans and investment, we must ensure that everyone who works in or engages with racing feels safe, respected and able to thrive.

鈥淚t is about everyone in our sport, from racecourses to yards to studs and schools, governing bodies and beyond.

鈥淲e are proud of the progress already made across the industry, but we are also honest about where more work is needed. The research the sport has carried out here and in the past has helped us recognise and accept where there is a problem, and act on it.

David Jones, Senior Independent Director for the BHA, said:

鈥淭his strategy provides a clear, practical framework for action and a long-term ambition to create a modern, inclusive culture supported by diverse and empowered leaders and a sport in which fans, participants and the workforce reflect modern Britain, where opportunities are equitable, and where discrimination is not tolerated. Its success will depend on leadership, accountability and collaboration across the whole sport.”

Rose Grissell, Head of Diversity and Inclusion for the BHA added:

“The strategy is rooted in evidence and shaped by the lived experiences of people working in racing today, and we offer a huge thank you to those who have taken the time and shown the courage to share these with us.

鈥淢any have positive experiences, but not everyone does, and acknowledging that is an important step in supporting positive progress.

鈥淥ur aim is to make inclusion part of everyday practice, not an optional extra. That means equipping people with the tools, education and support they need, and ensuring that small, everyday behaviours contribute to a culture where everyone feels they belong鈥�.

Julia Tyson, Chair of the Horseracing Industry People Board said:

“People are at the heart of British racing, and this strategy is essential to building a sustainable, skilled and motivated workforce for the future.

鈥淭he research makes clear that while there is much to celebrate, there are also barriers that prevent some people from progressing or feeling fully included. In some cases, for instance, this can lead to poor mental health and higher levels of sickness absence. Addressing these challenges is not only the right thing to do, but vital for the competitiveness and resilience of the sport.鈥�

Josh Apiafi, Sky Sports Racing presenter, said:

鈥淚t should be celebrated that the sport has worked hard to produce this strategy, ensuring that at its core sits the experience, support, and development of racing鈥檚 family from ethnically diverse backgrounds.

鈥淥nce you are within racing鈥檚 fold, it is a welcoming sport. However, we have faced numerous barriers to entry that have prevented ethnically diverse communities from becoming part of racing鈥檚 fanbase and workforce.

鈥淭his strategy has the potential to significantly open employment pathways and create long-term opportunities that will support the future growth of the sport.

鈥淚t is the responsibility of all stakeholders across racing to ensure that Diversity and Inclusion remain front of mind, not only in principle, but in practice.鈥�

Bobby Beevers, founder of Autism in Racing, said:

鈥淲e are proud to support the BHA鈥檚 Equality, Diversity and Inclusion strategy. People who are autistic and neurodiverse should always feel welcome within racing. Through Autism in Racing, we are ensuring that autistic voices are heard and represented across the industry. By working together, we can make the sport more inclusive so that everyone can enjoy racing, pursue careers within it, and truly feel they belong.鈥�

Cheryl Caves, Chair of Women in Racing, who have published their new said:

鈥淲omen in Racing is pleased to support the new strategy. As an independent organisation we have an important role to play in the delivery of the strategy and our existing programmes, including industry-leading mentoring, bursaries and events will contribute to its success. Racing Home and our new menopause research demonstrate how by listening to, and working with the sport鈥檚 participants we can make racing a better environment for all鈥�

David Letts, Chair of Racing with Pride, said:

鈥淭he launch of this strategy marks a significant step forward for British horseracing, providing a clear and unified framework for meaningful progress across the sport. While much positive work has already been undertaken, we now have the opportunity to bring those efforts together, ensuring the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

鈥淚mportantly, the published research shines a light on the challenges still facing the sport 鈥� challenges which we must face head-on. I am proud to see a commitment that goes beyond words, with tangible actions outlined, to create a culture where everyone feels safe, valued and able to thrive within our industry.鈥�

Notes to editors:

3. Support lines

Mental Health Medical Emergency: Call 999 or go to A&E (call an ambulance or get someone to drive you)

Mental Health Urgent Support (non-life threatening): Call 111 Select Mental Health on the telephone options, The Samaritans call 116 123 (available 24/7)

For less urgent, industry Mental Health Support, contact Racing Welfare on 0800 6300 443

To share a concern: Contact .

The Horseracing Industry People Board (HIPB), British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and British Racing School (BRS) have today announced the launch of British racing鈥檚 first 鈥淩ider Development Pathway鈥�.

The Rider Development Pathway (RDP) connects a series of initiatives designed to support riders at all levels within British horse racing, from young people starting out their rider journey in pony racing, to those working in yards and others hoping to take out their jockey鈥檚 license.听Its aims are to raise the standard of riding across the sport, with a significant focus on enhancing the quality of coaching and supporting the career progression of riders into the horseracing workforce, as well as creating a world class talent development pathway.

It brings together training, coaching and career support into one joined-up system, so riders develop the right skills at the right time, safely and consistently, with clear routes to progress.

Supported by industry stakeholders, the RDP brings together all the existing funding streams for rider and jockey development from the BHA, including ongoing investment from the HBLB and Racing Foundation. Its aims are to raise the skillset of riders across the sport, thereby improving the training of racehorses and ultimately helping to enhance British racing鈥檚 reputation and standing.

Following a competitive tender process run by the HIPB and BHA, we are pleased to announce that the British Racing School (BRS) has been awarded the contract for the delivery of the Rider Development Pathway.

Kicking off in early 2026, the Rider Development Pathway will initially focus on the delivery of rider coaching in yards, led by former Classic-winning jockey George Baker as Head of Coaching, whose team will work closely with racehorse trainers to identify staff within their teams to be coached against the industry Rider Competency Matrix.

The Rider Competency Matrix, which has also been developed by the HIPB and including consultation with skilled riders, former jockeys and employers, provides a framework which sets out the skills a rider should be able to show at each level of their career, from entry to advanced levels. This clearly demonstrates the skill progression riders would look to develop on their journey through the sport, and ensures consistent understanding for employers of skill requirements across all riding roles.

The Rider Development Pathway will also offer regional coaching workshops to maximise the accessibility of coaching to staff across the country and seek to develop coaching capability, qualifications and accreditation within training yards.

The Pathway will also extend to include coaching within pony racing, a key entry point for the sport, and will continue to encompass the Jockey Coaching Programme which currently supports 133 conditional and apprentice jockeys and has been run by the British Racing School since 2014.

The Horseracing Industry People Board was established as part of British horseracing鈥檚 ongoing Industry Strategy led by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and was established to oversee a more coordinated and long-term approach to our people 鈥� one that will help future-proof British racing by ensuring the industry is an attractive, fulfilling, safe and enjoyable place to work.

Former jockey Tom Scudamore, member of the Horseracing Industry People Board said:

鈥淗aving come through the system myself, I know how important clear guidance, consistent coaching and the right support are to a rider鈥檚 career. The Rider Development Pathway brings everything together into one clear, nationally recognised programme 鈥� improving the quality and consistency of coaching, supporting rider well-being and performance, and giving people at every stage a clearer route to progress and build a long-term career in the sport.

鈥淏y aligning investment and development across racing, it will grow our talent pool, give employers greater confidence in the skills of their riders, and strengthen British racing鈥檚 reputation for professionalism, welfare and opportunity.鈥�

Dr Eleanor Boden, Education, Development, and Careers Programme Lead for the Horseracing Industry People Board, said:

鈥淭he Rider Development Pathway is a hugely important project which will help to enhance the quality of rider coaching across the industry and support the career progression of riders within the horseracing workforce.

鈥淔rom coaching in yards to regional rider clinics and the embedding coaching capabilities across the sport, we are looking forward to working in partnership with the British Racing School and the wider industry to deliver this vital initiative.鈥�

The is recognised as one of the world鈥檚 leading providers of rider training and supports hundreds of young people into the sport each year through its Foundation Course, in addition to having run the Jockey Coaching Programme since 2014. It is also a highly sought after training centre for international racing nations such as Qatar, Turkey and Bahrain who each year send riders to be coached at the school.

Andrew Braithwaite, Chief Executive of the British Racing School said:

鈥淲e are delighted to have been entrusted with the delivery of the Rider Development Pathway. This is an exciting opportunity to build on our long-standing commitment to developing riders and to ensure the sport continues to support the talented riders it needs to thrive.

鈥淥ur aim is to enhance the quality, consistency, and accessibility of coaching provision across British horseracing through our highly skilled and credible rider coaches and provide targeted support services and career progression for riders 鈥� be that at entry level for young people engaged in pony racing, individuals already working in yards or apprentice and conditional jockeys starting out.鈥�

Rob Sage, Head of Operations for the National Trainers Federation (NTF), said:

“The Rider Development Pathway is an important initiative offering trainers access to high quality coaching, delivered in their own yard, which is both accessible to their staff and convenient for a high-pressure working environment.

鈥淚t is also a crucial first step to ensuring that, as an industry, we are producing the number and quality of riders required for trainers businesses, and the sport as a whole, to thrive.鈥�

Trainer James Owen said:

鈥淭he Rider Development Pathway is a really important step for the sport and having Rider Coaches come into the workplace and support staff will be really valuable, as will the work to help develop coaches in yards as well. We all know that better riders lead to better horses so anything that helps support this has got to be a positive.鈥�

Following industry discussion it was agreed that the introduction of a career development pathway should focus first on riders, but in time should be extended to cover other segments of the racing industry workforce. Work is underway on these further pathways.

Ends.

海角大神:

British Racing School: Naomi Lawson, Director of Engagement
naomi.lawson@brs.org.uk / 07475 152406

British Horseracing Authority (BHA) on behalf of the Horseracing Industry People Board: Robin Mounsey, Head of Communications
rmounsey@britishhorseracing.com / 07584 171551

Notes to editors:

1. About the Horseracing Industry People Board

The Horseracing Industry People Board consists of individuals who provide a strong balance of knowledge, experience from within and beyond the racing industry.

Chaired by Julia Tyson, members bring deep understanding and expertise in key areas like human resources, diversity and inclusion, education and employment and strategic leadership.

In February 2025, the People Board听published听颈迟蝉听three-year workforce strategy, which sets out an industry-wide plan bringing together new and existing projects in key areas such as recruitment, training and development, employment practices, inclusion and wellbeing.

Our People, Racing鈥檚 Future听is a coordinated plan to help British racing and breeding attract and retain a highly skilled and well supported workforce.

The workforce strategy forms a key part of the wider听Industry Strategy work听being led by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and will be underpinned and informed by extensive stakeholder input, engagement and expertise.

2. About the :

The British Racing School is a world class centre of excellence in the horse racing industry. Its Royal Patron is Her Majesty The Queen. Over the past four decades it has trained thousands of people from across society and equipped them with the skills to excel in Britain鈥檚 second biggest spectator sport, horse racing.

As a charity, The British Racing School improves social mobility for young people aged 8-24, by using their interest in horses to unlock education, training and employment opportunities which may otherwise have felt inaccessible to them. It creates pathways for over 500 young people every year to participate in the sport of British horseracing through over 25 specialist racing courses. Its flagship programme is the Foundation Course, a Level 2 Apprenticeship for 16-24 year olds which prepares young people for jobs as stable staff, riding and looking after the sport鈥檚 racehorses. To date, some 4,000 young people have successfully completed the course and gone onto to work in the industry.

The British Racing School is also home to the Newmarket Pony Academy, a community project which uses horses and ponies to positively affect mental health and well-being of children aged 8-14 in Newmarket and its neighbouring communities. It is also the base for the Riding A Dream Academy which works to increase diversity and inclusion in the sport through tailored courses for young people from diverse ethnic communities and disadvantaged backgrounds aged 14-16.

(Registered Charity No. 1161555).

@BRSNewmarket

The Horseracing Industry People Board (HIPB) has secured funding from the Racing Foundation and Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) to support the implementation of its immediate programme of activity for 2025.

The funding approval follows the publication earlier this year of听Our People, Racing鈥檚 Future听鈥� an industry-backed strategy to attract and retain a highly skilled and well supported workforce across British racing and breeding.

The Racing Foundation and HBLB have agreed funding grants of 拢489,929 and 拢269,438 respectively 鈥� a combined contribution of over 拢759,000 鈥� to ensure initial activity听for 2025 can start to be delivered.

These grants will support several new initiatives and provide continuity funding for ongoing programmes of work, including:

• A substance misuse pilot 鈥撎�Building on the work of the Newmarket Substance Misuse Support Network听to pilot drug and alcohol testing, education and support in training yards and studs. This work is being led by the National Trainers Federation, National Association of Racing Staff and Thoroughbred Breeders鈥� Association.
• Mentoring training and qualification pilot 鈥撎�Standardising and aligning existing programmes by introducing an industry-recognised standard for training and qualification in mentoring. Training will be rolled out as part of the Racing Staff Development Programme, with skill-sharing opportunities and peer-to-peer support.
• A workforce analysis and forecast 鈥撎�Developing a better understanding of the industry鈥檚 existing skills level, with an initial focus on training yards, to more accurately identify and predict development opportunities and industry recruitment priorities.
• Racing Home (continuity funding)听鈥� an ongoing听 to improve the working lives of parents and carers, with a particular focus on encouraging and supporting women to work and remain working in the industry.
• JETS jockey coaching (continuity funding)听鈥� to support the enhanced training element of the jockey coaching programme while the HIPB works with the Jockeys Education & Training Scheme (JETS), British Racing School and the Racing Staff Development Programme to develop an aligned industry approach to coaching and training provision.

Alongside the specific initiatives, the funding will support additional roles in the HIPB programme team, based within the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), with new recruitment into key delivery positions and existing personnel retained to oversee the successful implementation of the three-year strategy.

The bolstered team will be led by newly appointed Programme Director Jon Pett, who will take up his role in early May. Jon has a strong background in sport, having worked in senior leadership and performance director roles at Pentathlon GB, British Cycling and Table Tennis England.

He will oversee the coordination and delivery of the activity听听in the workforce strategy as an immediate priority for 2025, including in the following areas, where work is already underway or soon to begin:

• Expanding vocational training to equip new entrants into the industry with essential skills
• Reviewing and redesigning the trainer licence course
• Developing a rider development pathway
• Strengthening mental and physical wellbeing support services
• Creating and embedding clearer, more consistent employment standards
• Analysing and building data sets to inform ongoing decision-making.

The funding from the Racing Foundation and HBLB forms part of an overall 拢4.2 million contribution to wider people-related activity across British racing and breeding during 2025.

Julia Tyson, Chair of the Horseracing Industry People Board, said:

鈥淲e are very grateful to the Racing Foundation and Horserace Betting Levy Board for providing this vital funding to support the HIPB鈥檚 immediate programme of activity for 2025.

鈥淭his is a significant additional investment in racing鈥檚 people, which will allow us to deliver new activity and accelerate work already underway, with an immediate focus on supporting those in horse-facing roles.

鈥淚 am also delighted to welcome Jon Pett to the role of HIPB programme director. Jon is a highly experienced leader, with an impressive background in sport and a strong track record of workforce programme management and delivery.

鈥淗e will work closely with the industry people team within the BHA and industry stakeholders as we implement our strategy and start to make a positive and meaningful difference to the lives of racing鈥檚 workforce.鈥�

Tansy Challis, Chief Executive at the Racing Foundation, said:

“The Racing Foundation is pleased to support the Horseracing Industry People Board (HIPB) and its partners with this collaborative grant of up to 拢489,929. This funding ensures continuity for vital programmes such as the Jockey Coaching Programme and Racing Home, while also piloting new initiatives in mentoring and substance misuse support.

鈥淪upporting these programmes alongside key individuals responsible for delivering crucial elements of the HIPB strategy, in alignment with the British Horseracing Authority, Industry Programme Group and other industry funders, emphasises our commitment to the wellbeing, development and long-term sustainability of the racing workforce.”

Alan Delmonte, Chief Executive of the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB), said:

鈥淭he Horserace Betting Levy Board has awarded grants of up to 拢269,438 for 2025 to support the Horseracing Industry People Board (HIPB) staff costs and the 鈥榃orkforce Analysis and Forecast Project鈥�. The Board has supported the HIPB since its inception and has agreed further support during the implementation phase of the workforce strategy.鈥�

Notes to editors:

1.听Our People, Racing鈥檚 Future 鈥撎�A Workforce Strategy for the British horseracing Industry is available听, with a summary of the shorter-term priority activities set out on pages 48 鈥� 51.

2.听A summary version of听Our People, Racing鈥檚 Future听is available听.

3. Jon Pett, HIPB Programme Director.听With a strong background in sport, Jon joins the Industry People Programme having previously worked as Performance Director for Pentathlon GB, Head of Para-Cycling for British Cycling, and Head of Workforce Development and Performance Programmes at Table Tennis England. He is a Sport Committee Member at the British Paralympic Association and has previously held consultancy and committee roles with UK Sport, the European Cycling Union and as an Advisory Board Member for the Glasgow 2023 World Cycling Championships.

4. About the Horseracing Industry People Board (HIPB):听罢丑别听HIPB听was created in May 2023 by the British Horseracing Authority, with support from the Horserace Betting Levy Board, the Racing Foundation, and reporting to the Industry Programme Group, to create a Workforce Strategy to coordinate and develop a long-term approach to our people. The Board is independently chaired and comprises a strong balance of knowledge, skills and subject-matter expertise from within and beyond the racing industry:

• Julia Tyson, Chair
• Daniel K眉bler, Racehorse Trainer, K眉bler Racing
• George McGrath, Chief Executive, National Association of Racing Staff (NARS)
• Helene Sharrock, Chief People Officer, The Jockey Club
• John Burgess, Interim Co-Director of Integrity and Regulation, British Horseracing Authority (BHA)
• Neil Robertson, Chief Executive, National Skills Academy for Rail
• Rob Hezel, CEO and consultant, sport and charity
• Tallulah Wilson, Head of International Partnerships, UK Tote Group
• Tom Scudamore, former professional Jump jockey

5. About the Racing Foundation: In 2012 the听Racing Foundation听was established to oversee the distribution of funds to charitable causes within the racing and thoroughbred industry following the sale of the Tote. Since inception it has awarded over 拢39million in grants. Equine welfare, racing鈥檚 people and ESG are the key areas of focus in its 2025 鈥� 2027 strategy. The Trustees of the Racing Foundation are Julia Budd (Chair), Linda Bowles (SID), Jim Boyle, Louise Kemble, Alice Page, Rishi Persad and Algy Smith-Maxwell. 海角大神, the Thoroughbred Group and Racecourse Association are the three joint Members of the Racing Foundation, which is registered with the Charity Commission as a charity under the law of England and Wales (no. 1145297).听听听听

6. About the Horserace Betting Levy Board:听The听听(HBLB) is a statutory body operating in accordance with the provisions of the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act 1963 (as amended). Its purpose is to assess and collect monetary contributions from bookmakers via a levy, which it distributes for the improvement of horseracing and breeds of horses, and for the advancement of veterinary science and education.

Dr Hill has served in the role since 2014 and has played a central role in advancing medical and healthcare standards across British racing. He will remain with the BHA over the coming months to support a smooth transition, including assisting with the recruitment and induction of his successor.

Dr Hill joined the BHA in 2014, having been Senior Racecourse Medical Officer at Lingfield Park racecourse, a Squad Doctor for the England Football Teams at the FA, as well as a member of the Football Association Medical Committee and former Sports Physician at the 2012 London Olympics.

During his time with the BHA, Dr Hill has forged close relationships across the sport and has been a tireless advocate for the welfare of jockeys and riders. He has championed the mantra that jockeys are elite athletes and that their healthcare provision and routines should reflect this, with an increased focus on physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, nutrition, and mental health care as standard practice.

Jerry played a vital role in the development of enhanced on-course medical care and physiotherapy services, working with racecourses. He also worked closely with organisations such as the Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF), Professional Jockeys Association (PJA), Racecourse Association (RCA), Amateur Jockeys Association (AJA), and Point-to-Point Authority (PPA) to ensure that jockey and rider wellbeing remains central to the sport鈥檚 healthcare provision.

Memorably, Dr Hill played a leading part in the sport-wide collaborative effort to maintain British racing during the COVID-19 pandemic, with racing鈥檚 development of return-to-racing protocols ensuring that the sport was given the green light to be the first sport to return to professional action following the lockdown.

As a result, Dr Hill was awarded an MBE in the Queen鈥檚 2021 Birthday Honours for services to British Horseracing during the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as the George Ennor Trophy for Outstanding Achievement in Racing at the Horserace Writers and Photographers Association (HWPA)鈥檚 annual 鈥淒erby Awards鈥� in December 2020, and the Presidents鈥� Special Award at the Professional Jockeys鈥� Association 鈥淟esters鈥� awards, also in December 2020.

The BHA will begin the recruitment process for a new Chief Medical Adviser shortly. Dr Hill will remain in post to assist with the process and take part in the new appointee鈥檚 induction.

BHA Acting Chief Executive Brant Dunshea said:

鈥淛erry has made a significant and lasting impact on British racing. His passion, knowledge and leadership have helped shape a progressive approach to jockey health and medical care. He also played a crucial role in guiding our decision making and our engagement with government as the sport navigated the challenges of the pandemic, for which we are all hugely grateful.

鈥淥n behalf of the BHA and everyone in British racing, I want to thank Jerry for his outstanding service and wish him the very best for his retirement. I am also grateful that Jerry has agreed to remain in post until his successor can be found, and to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities鈥�

Dr Hill said:

鈥淚t has been a privilege to work in a sport where the welfare of its people is taken so seriously. I鈥檝e greatly valued the opportunity to work closely with jockeys and industry colleagues to help place the health of riders at the heart of the sport鈥檚 medical care. British racing is fortunate to have so many skilled and committed professionals working to support its participants, and I look forward to seeing that work continue.鈥�

鈥淲e have closely monitored developments around greyhound racing in Wales since the publication of 鈥淭he Final Bend?鈥� report by the Petitions Committee in December 2022.

“That report contained a recommendation that when considering a ban on greyhound racing, the Welsh Government should also look at other sports where animals compete. The Welsh Government formally rejected that recommendation within their official response to the report in 2023, and horseracing has not been considered as part of the subsequent process.

“At a Senedd debate on this topic in March 2023, former Welsh Government Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths MS remarked that horseracing is “amongst the world鈥檚 best regulated animal activities鈥�. We鈥檙e not complacent however and we continue to update the Welsh Government on our work to further raise equine welfare standards.

“We are proud of our record on horse welfare and the improvements the sport has made to the safety of our horses, with more than 拢56 million invested by the industry into veterinary research and education in the past 20 years. The BHA firmly believes that when animal sport is well regulated it brings unrivalled quality of life and high standards of care for the animals involved.

“The BHA co-ordinates an active Cross Party Group for Horseracing in the Senedd and will continue to use the group鈥檚 expertise as we work to ensure that horseracing retains its high level of political support in Wales.

“Our industry is a sporting, cultural and economic asset to the Welsh nation and we believe the Welsh Government recognises that contribution.鈥�

British racing has today launched a new online听听to help those working with and around horses spot the signs of concussion and return safely to work following a head injury.

Concussion is an injury to the brain that can occur after falling from a horse or after any impact to the head or body. It is the third most common injury for jockeys, but can happen to anyone in racing 鈥� on the racecourse, riding out on the gallops or even in the training yard.

Given the higher-risk nature of our sport, remaining at the forefront of concussion management is a priority for British racing, with education around how to recognise and recover from head injuries central to this approach.

The new learning module is available now on听听and builds on existing medical advice and British racing鈥檚 robust jockey protocols to provide industry-specific concussion guidance to everyone working in horse-facing roles.

Developed by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and funded by the Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF) and the Racing Foundation, the module helps participants:

• Recognise听how concussion looks and feels 鈥� and how to spot it in others
• Remove听a person with suspected concussion to a safe place and seek medical advice
• Recover听from concussion, allowing sufficient time for the brain to heal
• Return听safely and gradually to riding and horse-facing roles.

The guidance recommends taking time to rest and recover in the first 24-48 hours following a concussion, with minimal activity, reduced screen time, plenty of sleep and seeking medical support via NHS 111 or a GP if symptoms don鈥檛 start to settle.

It also advises against riding or any tasks that may result in head impact or injury for a minimum of 21 days following concussion, with the gradual return to activity helping reduce the risk of further injury or longer-term problems.

While aimed primarily at those working directly with horses, such as jockeys, trainers and stable employees, the advice is also applicable to those in support roles, like valets and racecourse teams, who may be well placed to help spot and help manage concussion in others.

Those taking the module will also have access to a suite of downloadable resources, which offer further guidance around symptoms, recovery, and rehabilitation, together with signposting to additional support services.

The guidance has been developed by medical experts and racing professionals in line with the UK Government鈥檚 grassroots sport guidelines,听, so that it adheres to best practice health advice, while ensuring it is this relevant to managing concussion within the racing environment.

Jockeys and riders licensed by the BHA (amateurs and professionals) should note that while they are encouraged to complete the module to help improve their own understanding of concussion, their return to race riding following head injury will continue to be managed by the BHA Medical Department in partnership with the IJF.

Dr Jerry Hill, the BHA鈥檚 Chief Medical Adviser, said:

鈥淕iven the risks associated with our sport, we take concussion very seriously and already have comprehensive protocols in place to ensure the highest standards of care, attention, and rehabilitation for our jockeys.

鈥淏ut concussion can happen anywhere, at any time, and this new learning module has been developed to enhance the way we support racing鈥檚 wider workforce, with industry-specific guidance on spotting the signs of concussion, managing recovery and the safe return to work.

鈥淭his is an incredibly useful resource for anyone in British racing working with or around horses, which can help improve understanding of concussion and reduce the risk of serious injury. We are very grateful to the teams at the IJF and the Racing Foundation for making this possible.鈥�

Lisa Hancock, Chief Executive of the Injured Jockeys Fund, said:

鈥淥ur experience of supporting jockeys with concussion does highlight that prompt recognition of the signs and active management of the symptoms can really help aid recovery.

鈥淭hese guidelines are written to help protect the long-term health of any rider, jockey or anyone who works around horses who might have sustained a concussion injury.鈥�

Tansy Challis, Chief Executive Officer of the Racing Foundation, said:

鈥淭his new, online learning module demonstrates how proactive the racing industry is at ensuring it remains at the forefront of concussion management and at听maintaining its reputation as a leader in the wider sporting context.

鈥淕iven the risks associated with the racing environment, it鈥檚 crucial that everyone can recognise the signs of concussion as soon as possible and identify the most suitable recovery and rehabilitation pathways.

鈥淲e hope that through this accessible and digestible way of learning about concussion, we will be able to reduce the risks both to individuals and those around them. We encourage everyone to complete the module on the free Racing2Learn platform.鈥�

Initiated and funded by the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) and the Racing Foundation, the Industry People Board will lead the development of racing鈥檚 long-term plan for its workforce 鈥� a key part of the wider听strategy work, being led by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA).

Meeting formally today (Wednesday 3 May) for the first time, the People Board comprises eight members:

• Rob Hezel, Chief Executive, The Racing Foundation
• Daniel K眉bler, Racehorse Trainer, K眉bler Racing
• George McGrath, Chief Executive, National Association of Racing Staff
• Neil Robertson, Chief Executive, National Skills Academy for Rail
• Tom Scudamore, former professional Jump jockey
• Helene Sharrock, Chief People Officer, The Jockey Club
• Julia Tyson, former Chief HR Officer, Lloyds of London
• Tallulah Wilson, Head of International Partnerships, UK Tote Group

Recruited through an open and competitive process, the makeup of the Board provides a strong balance of knowledge, experience and expertise from within and beyond the racing industry.

Board members will be supported in their work by full-time Programme Director, Lucy Attwood, who joins from Godolphin, where she was Head of Human Resources.

The Board will now work on an ambitious and deliverable people strategy, which will bring together new and existing projects under one coordinated approach, underpinned and informed by extensive stakeholder involvement and engagement.

The strategy will focus on the recruitment, retention, development and wellbeing of a high-performing, diverse and inclusive workforce 鈥� supporting and driving important initiatives to ensure racing is an attractive, fulfilling and enjoyable industry in which to work.

Welcoming the appointments to the Industry People Board, Neil Hayward said:

鈥淚 am delighted and enormously excited that we have been able to recruit Board members of such a high calibre and with great diversity of talent, skill and professional experience.

鈥淭he People Board has a critical role to play in planning and coordinating a bold, viable and sustainable plan to future-proof British racing鈥檚 workforce. Assembling a team of this quality is an important step in this process.

鈥淥ur aim was to attract a strong collective, with knowledge of and experience in the racing industry, together with deep understanding and expertise in key areas like human resources, diversity and inclusion, education and employment and strategic leadership.

鈥淎bove all, we wanted a group of people who were passionate about racing and seeing racing鈥檚 people flourish 鈥� and I believe we have achieved that in abundance.鈥�

Commenting on Lucy Attwood’s role as the Board鈥檚 Programme Director, Hayward added:

鈥淟ucy is a highly experienced HR professional who has a strong and demonstrable track record of planning and delivering people strategies for some major employers, most recently during her ten years with Godolphin.

鈥淪he will be a big asset as we embark on this immensely challenging but also hugely exciting endeavour 鈥� and I look forward to us working closely together as we seek to achieve the industry鈥檚 collective aspirations for a happy, thriving and sustainable workforce.鈥�

Industry People Board members

Neil Hayward (Chair).听More than 25 years of experience, including in Board and Executive Team Leadership positions at High Speed Two Ltd, Post Office, BT, Ministry of Justice, Standard Chartered Bank, Gallaher Group, Serco Group and Booker, as well as in the NHS and Higher and Further Education.

Rob Hezel.听Chief Executive of The Racing Foundation since 2015, with overall responsibility for setting and delivering the organisation’s strategy. Extensive business experience at Executive and Board听level across racing, the private, public and third sectors, notably in the areas of education, skills, training and recruitment.

Daniel K眉bler.听A racehorse trainer with over 20 years鈥� industry experience. Together with wife, Claire, and a talented team they successfully combine horsemanship with an analytical, scientific evidence-based approach to training. Winners of the Lycetts Team Champions Award in 2020 and finalists in 2021 and 2022, they are recognised in the industry for their human resource practices.

George McGrath.听Chief Executive of the National Association of Racing Staff (NARS) since 2012 representing racing staff in various industry forums and providing support, advice and guidance on employment matters. Started his career in racing as an Apprentice Jockey before holding senior positions in several racing yards.

Neil Robertson.听An experienced senior leader in the public and private sectors, specialising in designing and implementing skills strategies, most recently in rail, energy and hospitality. Currently the Chief Executive of the National Skills Academy for Rail, providing expert skills and consultancy services in the transport and infrastructure sectors.

Tom Scudamore. Recently-retired Professional Jump Jockey with more than 1,500 winners 鈥� including multiple Grade 1 and Cheltenham Festival victories. Has held several ambassadorial roles within the industry and was a member of the Whip Steering Group.

Helene Sharrock.听Chief People Officer at The Jockey Club since 2021, leading the people and culture team and delivering effective workforce strategies, including around talent acquisition and inclusion programmes. Previously spent 15-years in senior management roles within the media, sports entertainment and retail sectors.

Julia Tyson. Former Chief HR Officer at Lloyd鈥檚 of London. An experienced executive director, responsible for developing and delivering successful people, change and culture programmes across multiple sectors over a 40-year career. Now building a portfolio of non-executive director roles focused on skills and culture development, along with coaching and mentoring HR Directors.

Tallulah Wilson.听Head of International Partnerships at UK Tote Group, responsible for building commercial relationships. Chair of Women In Racing until 2022, setting strategic direction and coordinating projects, including family support service, Racing Home. Also set up The Thoroughbred Club, a club for young people interested in participating and working in racing.

Programme Director

Lucy Attwood.听Extensive career in HR and held senior management positions in pharmaceutical sales and research organisations, manufacturing and fintech and worked as a freelance consultant for SMEs. Has a degree in Psychology and a Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling and has worked in private practice as a therapist, executive coach and for Cambridge University Staff Counselling Service.

• New听Race to your Career podcast series launched exploring different aspects of industry employment, training and development
• Refreshed improves user experience for those wanting to find out more about working in the horseracing industry
• Careersinracing celebrates one-year anniversary with nearly 8,000 weekly users

海角大神鈥檚 (BHA) Careersinracing team has today released a new five-part podcast series 鈥� Race to your Career 鈥� which showcases the wide range of jobs and development opportunities available across British racing and breeding.

Launched during National Careers Week 2023, the new series covers various aspects of employment, training and careers advice 鈥� using the real-life journeys and personal experiences of people working in British racing.

Developed with education partner, Not Going To Uni, each episode focuses on a particular area of the industry, with guests ranging from racing grooms, experienced veterinary officers and marketing professionals, to those at the very start of their careers in racing.

All episodes of Race to your Career are available to listen to now on the main podcast hosting platforms, including and , or to watch on the Careersinracing .

New-look Careersinracing.com website

Anyone inspired and motivated by the podcasts can explore training, apprenticeships and job roles using , which has been redesigned to provide users with a better, more engaging experience.

Improvements to the racing industry鈥檚 dedicated careers website include:

• Enhanced career sector information 鈥� demonstrating the roles available in the industry, with a summary of each position, the skills required and the training opportunities
• A training and education page 鈥� with courses, dates and the relevant providers
• Refreshed video content, case studies and inspirational stories
• General information about the racing industry, with a particular focus on wellbeing,听culture and respect, and safeguarding.

The Careersinracing brand also delivers the industry , which is free to use for racing鈥檚 job seekers and employers, and features a wide range of employment and training opportunities.

Re-launched this time last year, the Job Board continues to prove immensely popular, with over 35,000 page views and nearly 8,000 users per week, browsing job opportunities across all sectors of the racing industry.

BHA Head of Careers Marketing and Recruitment, Zoe Elliott, said:

鈥淲e鈥檙e delighted to launch our five-part podcast series, Race to your Career, which provides a fascinating insight into the vast number of opportunities available across British racing and breeding.

鈥淚t was important to us that listeners 鈥� and those watching on our YouTube channel 鈥� can hear directly from people involved in the industry: finding out about how they got started, what their current roles involve and any advice they have for those looking to kick-start their own racing journey.

鈥淭he new podcast is part of our continued efforts to keep our digital products current and in line with what our career seekers are looking for in terms of how they can access information and advice.

“Our , who we engage with on our campaigns, were big supporters of podcasts so we were really delighted to produce them with one of our education partners鈥�.

The Race to your Career podcast series is now available to listen to on the following platforms:

The series is also available to watch via the Careersinracing .

For more information, please visit the website, or contact: info@careersinracing.com

To look for a job or to advertise an employment opportunity, visit the Job board at:

The awards, now in their 18th year, recognise and reward the outstanding skill, commitment and contribution of over 10,000 stud and stable staff in England, Scotland and Wales.

Sponsored by Godolphin and run by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) in association with the Racing Post and Racing TV, the 2022 awards will carry prize-money totalling 拢128,500, with as much as 拢30,000 available to a single yard or stud.

With judging and the ceremony having taken place virtually in 2021 due to the pandemic, 2022 will see a welcome return to the traditional format, with judging day for the finalists on Tuesday 21 February 2022 before a London ceremony, at a venue to be announced.

Nominations will close on Tuesday 9 November 2021 and can be made online by anyone, simply by visiting the Godolphin Stud & Stable Staff Awards website at .

Video submissions will once again be accepted in advance of the 2022 awards, ensuring that the nominations procedure is as fair as possible for all those involved, irrespective of their level of written communication and language skills.

The 2022 Judging Panel will be Chaired by broadcaster Nick Luck, who did so for the first time in 2021 having taken over from Brough Scott. As is traditional, the panel will feature the previous year鈥檚 Employee of the Year, Beck Edmunds.

Hugh Anderson, Managing Director of Godolphin (UK and Dubai), said: 鈥淭he past 18 months have demonstrated more than ever what a vital part the loyal, hardworking people working in the racing and breeding industries have to play in keeping the show on the road: in the racing yard, on the racecourse or on the stud farm.

鈥淭heir outstanding dedication and commitment has seen them rise to the challenges of recent times in spades and it is as important as ever that they are recognised and rewarded.

鈥淕odolphin is delighted to continue its support for these awards and encourage anyone working in our wonderful industry to put forward their outstanding colleagues or employees for nomination.鈥�

Nick Luck, Chair of the judging panel, said: 鈥淚 was proud to take over the position of Chair from Brough Scott in 2021 and was struck by the passion, dedication and talent displayed by all nominees.

鈥淭hese winners of these awards are rightly proud of their achievement and I was touched last year not only to see how much the recognition meant to the winners themselves, but also their colleagues and friends at their places of work.

鈥淚 would encourage every operation in the nation to get involved in the nomination process and be part of something that shines the greatly deserved spotlight on the sport鈥檚 vital workforce.鈥�

Julie Harrington, Chief Executive of the BHA, said: 鈥淏ritish racing has been faced with unprecedented challenges during the last two years and while wider social restrictions put in place to combat COVID-19 have been lifted in Britain, those working in racing continue to adhere to protocols designed to ensure the sport鈥檚 ability to continue in the face of the ongoing public health threat.

鈥淭hat stud and stable staff have not only been able to adapt to a new way of working so professionally but been able to continue to ensure the high standard of care provided to each and every horse is a testament to their incredible hard work. I look forward to attending next year鈥檚 ceremony to pay tribute to the 2022 nominees and celebrate their incredible contribution to racing.鈥�

Notes to editors:

1. View a which outlines full details of the Godolphin Stud and Stable Staff Awards

Led by Careers In Racing 鈥� the careers marketing arm of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) 鈥� the Youth Collaboration Group will give young people the chance to contribute their views and ideas about marketing initiatives and content used to promote careers within the industry.

The first of its kind in the sport, the group is open to anyone aged between 14 and 21 with a keen interest in marketing, graphic design, social media, video content, events, and communications.

Not only will members have a real say in shaping the direction of how careers in racing are marketed to younger audiences, but they will also gain valuable transferrable skills to support their own career development.

All members of the group will receive a Careers In Racing skills passport, which will detail what they have achieved during their time on the group 鈥� ranging from proofreading and copy editing, through to video reviewing and participation in online video conferencing.

They will also have an opportunity to consider how they are developing other essential skills via a new partnership Careers In Racing has entered with the .

Zoe Elliott, Head of Careers Marketing and Recruitment at the BHA, said:

鈥淚t鈥檚 important for us at Careers In Racing to make sure that whatever we produce 鈥� be that a careers video or careers event 鈥� is relevant to the audience it is aimed at.

鈥淲e want to build a team of young people who really understand what we are trying to achieve, and who can give us some honest feedback, and co-create some of our initiatives.听 At the same time, we want to support them in developing work-ready skills to enhance their CVs.

鈥淭his is a really exciting opportunity, and we can鈥檛 wait to get started. Youth Collaboration Group is our working title for this initiative so the very first activity they be asked to give feedback on is the creation of a name and logo for their group. We hope that lots of young people get in touch to be involved鈥�.

To apply to join the Youth Collaboration Group, please complete the online application .

For more information, please visit the website, or contact: info@careersinracing.com.

Notes to editors:

1. For more information, please visit the website, or contact:
   info@careersinracing.com

The includes over 450 schools and colleges, 130 impact organisations and 100 top employers – working collectively towards the mission that one day, everyone will build the essential skills to succeed. Our work is underpinned by the , which shows how to build essential skills at every stage of life. These eight skills are: Listening, Speaking, Problem Solving, Creativity, Staying Positive, Aiming High, Leadership and Teamwork.