The BHS launches a Hardship Fund to support riding schools during COVID-19

Photo credit: The British Horse Society

The British Horse Society (BHS) is delighted to announce the launch of its BHS-Approved Centre Hardship Fund to help support riding schools through the COVID-19 pandemic

 Launched on Friday 17 April, the UK’s largest equine charity has aimed this fund towards approved riding schools who are struggling financially as a result of the pandemic. It will go towards supporting the health and wellbeing of centres’ equines with financial aid.

James Hick, Chief Executive Officer at the BHS, said: “The Coronavirus pandemic has caused immense difficulties for many areas across the equestrian industry, and riding schools have been hit particularly hard. Their income may have stopped on March 23, but the need to look after their horses continues at high cost. The welfare of horses is at the heart of everything the BHS does, and we’re working incredibly hard to help support our Approved Ridings Schools through these unsettling times. We hope that this Hardship Fund will help alleviate some of the financial strain riding schools are currently facing, while also serving to protect the health and wellbeing of the horses and ponies under their care.”

Grants will be allocated based on a payment of £750 per riding school, and the fund is available from a variety of sources, including BHS National, Regional and County committees. The BHS has also accessed a number of restricted funds that are set aside for welfare purposes. The Approved Centre membership fees have also been waived for the next 12 months, and the BHS plans to launch a donations appeal in the next few weeks to provide extra support.

For more information, visit bhs.org.uk