BHS teams up with Sport England in latest coronavirus guidance

The British Horse Society (BHS) gives equestrian centres in England the green light to reopen from Wednesday 13 May, subject to social distancing and hygiene measures being adhered to

Further to guidance for recreational sport and exercise from the Sport & Recreation Alliance and Sport England, the British Horse Society (BHS) is advising that riding schools, facility centres and livery yards in England may re-open from Wednesday 13 May 2020 provided they observe the current Government guidance in relation to social distancing. In addition, there will be further guidance on hygiene and increased biosecurity for the resumption of sport that must be followed, which will be made available on the gov.uk website in the coming days.

The latest Government guidelines state that you’re only able to exercise in groups of no more than two unless you’re exclusively with members of your household. Therefore, riding schools and freelance coaches are advised to provide lessons or coaching to individuals only, not to family groups.

The Sport & Recreation Alliance has advised that it’s down to individual facilities and organisations to develop their own guidance on reopening, and to best fit their own situation in line with the Government’s advice. The BHS will support centres by providing advice, guidance and risk assessment templates that will follow in order to help businesses reopen.

The continuation of this advice and guidance is conditional based upon the criteria set by Government and is therefore subject to change.

Horse owners in England, Scotland and Wales are also able resume riding while maintaining social distancing and staying alert to control the virus. This is with immediate effect in Scotland and Wales, and with effect from Wednesday 13 May in England.

On the other hand, Northern Ireland is to remain in lockdown until further notice and therefore riding is not advised. The same goes for The Republic of Ireland, who remain in lockdown until Monday 18 May, at which point further guidance will follow.

The British Horse Society has become the first equestrian body to issue fully renewed coronavirus guidance following the Prime Minister’s address on Sunday evening (10 May 2020). Horse&Ridercontinues to await statements and further advice from British Equestrian (BEF) and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).