The Journey of British Equestrian's "Horses For All" Strategy
The British Equestrian Federation has made notable strides in crafting a more inclusive and welcoming environment through its "Horses For All" strategy, unveiled in December 2023. With diversity and accessibility as prime focuses, it's safe to say they're galloping ahead in fostering an equestrian community that reflects modern society.
The Foundation of Change
British Equestrian grounded this ambitious strategy in thorough research, highlighting historically underrepresented communities. By combining insights from a cultural health check and organizational evaluation, they crafted a vision where everyone feels they belong, from someone trying riding for the first time to experienced professionals. This was more than just a tick-box exercise; it aimed to mirror society within the equestrian sector.
Breaking Barriers: Showcase Initiatives
- Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP): Finalized in September 2024, DIAP aims to shatter participation barriers. It's like they've hired a bulldozer to remove the walls preventing diversity in equestrian sports!
- New Rulebook: British Equestrian is close to publishing an updated rulebook with robust anti-discrimination policies. Prepare to compete in an environment where everyone feels welcome, and "nay" to inequality!
- Urban Equestrian Centre Network: With the relaunch of the "Find a Centre" tool on their website, they've connected urban centers keen to share best practices, boosting accessibility and inclusion.
- Safe to Play Campaign: Streamlining safeguarding reports, this campaign provides a reliable system for identifying and managing issues.
- Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Training: British Equestrian has been busy! Over 18 months, an EDI training program was delivered to key personnel, fortifying the internal culture.
- Enhanced Data Collection: Now, the member systems will include diversity statistics, providing a clearer view of the equestrian landscape.
Reflections and Looking Ahead
Mandana Mehran Pour, Head of Participation and Development, applauds the progress, recognizing the effort taken by member bodies and the EDI Working Group. However, she makes it clear that this is only the beginning of a much larger movement toward an equitable equestrian community.
The British Equestrian's endeavor within this first year represents commendable growth and a significant commitment to ongoing change in the sector. Their quest is to ensure everyone experiences the joys and benefits of equestrianism—an initiative that surely makes Boudicca proud!
Research: Where Next?
This progress raises the bar and some pressing research questions:
- Impact of Diversity Initiatives: How do these influence participation rates? Will more people saddle up thanks to these changes?
- Global Comparisons: What can be learned from comparing diversity strategies in different regions or countries?
- Long-term Outcomes: Observing the enduring effects of these initiatives will be key to understanding their success.
- Training Program Effectiveness: How successfully do these programs shift cultural mindsets?
- Community Engagement and Urban Centers: Do urban equestrian centers play a pivotal role beyond providing access? Time to dust off the magnifying glasses!
As the British Equestrians trot into the future with these noble aspirations, their journey remains one steeped in potential for changing the sport's fabric. By inching towards a horizon where all feel welcomed and cherished, they’re braying all the right notes. This initiative shows that the equestrian community is set to canter confidently toward a more diverse and inclusive future.
For more information, you can check some sources that contributed to this outlook: British Equestrian Report, BDTV, Premier Performance, and Fairfax Saddles.
