• 1. Purpose
• 2. Scope
• 3. Definitions
• 4. Policy Statement
• 5. Roles and Responsibilities
• 6. Policy Detail and Procedures
• 6.1 Core Principles
• 6.2 Expectations of Participants
• 6.3 Show and Event Standards
• 6.4 Reporting a Welfare Concern
• 6.5 Outcomes and Actions
• 6.6 Veterinary Involvement
• 6.7 Public Scrutiny and Social Licence
• 7. Related Policies and References
• 8. Compliance and Breach Handling
• 9. Review and Version Control
• 10. Approval Record

1. Purpose

This policy sets out the Western Equestrian Society's (WES) unwavering commitment to safeguarding the physical and psychological welfare of horses involved in our activities. It defines the standards of care, conduct, and accountability expected of all members and participants, and outlines how concerns will be addressed. WES recognises that public trust in equestrian sport depends on prioritising animal welfare, not only in law but in spirit. This policy is part of our commitment to responsible horsemanship and to protecting the social licence under which the sport operates.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all horses used in WES-affiliated activities, including shows, clinics, camps, demos, and training days; all WES members, participants, officials, judges, clinicians, and spectators; and all environments where horses are handled, ridden, stabled, or transported as part of WES activity. It applies before, during, and after any WES activity where a horse is present.

3. Definitions

• Animal welfare: A horse's physical health, mental wellbeing, and ability to express natural behaviours free from suffering or distress
• Social licence: Public acceptance of horse sport based on trust, transparency, and ethical treatment of animals
• Misuse: Any treatment of a horse that is negligent, excessive, harmful, or contrary to good practice
• Welfare Concern: Any report of behaviour, equipment, conditions, or conduct that may compromise a horse's wellbeing
• Welfare Officer: The named individual responsible for receiving, assessing, and escalating animal welfare concerns

4. Policy Statement

WES believes that the horse's welfare must come before competition, convenience, or personal achievement. No activity will take place under the WES name where horses are at risk due to ignorance, neglect, or pressure to perform. Every person interacting with horses under WES must demonstrate respect, care, and knowledge. Where standards fall short - intentionally or otherwise - the Society will act.

5. Roles and Responsibilities

6. Policy Detail and Procedures

6.1 Core Principles

WES adopts the BEF's Five Domains of Welfare approach, ensuring horses are: (1) properly fed and hydrated; (2) housed in safe and comfortable conditions; (3) healthy and free from pain or injury; (4) able to exhibit normal behaviours; and (5) experiencing a positive mental state. The horse's welfare is the responsibility of the owner, rider, and handler, and must never be compromised due to lack of preparation, over-ambition, or misjudged training.

6.2 Expectations of Participants

• Horses presented at WES events must be fit, sound, and suitably trained
• Any horse showing signs of pain, lameness, distress, or exhaustion may be withdrawn by an official
• Whips, spurs, or training aids must only be used appropriately - never as punishment
• Excessive schooling, visible tension, or forced head carriage may result in intervention or disqualification
• Riders must withdraw their horse if they believe it is lame, distressed, or otherwise unfit to continue
• Horses must never be left tied or transported in a way that puts them at risk

6.3 Show and Event Standards

Event leads must ensure: arenas and warm-up areas are safe, appropriate, and well-managed; adequate water and stabling are available where required; officials are briefed on welfare duties; surfaces are checked for safety and consistency; and scheduled breaks are provided to reduce pressure on horses and riders.

Judges, stewards, and scribes must: observe riders in warm-up and report any concerns; check tack and equipment where warranted; and halt or disqualify competitors where serious welfare concerns arise.

6.4 Reporting a Welfare Concern

Any person may raise a concern, either during or after a WES activity. Reports should go to the Welfare Officer or Show/Event Lead, and may be: verbal (during event); written (after event, via concern form or email); or anonymous (although less preferable for follow-up).

The Welfare Officer will: log the concern; assess the immediacy and severity; investigate, gather evidence, and speak with involved parties; and determine the appropriate outcome. Serious or repeated breaches may be referred to the Disciplinary Procedure.

6.5 Outcomes and Actions

WES reserves the right to suspend participation of any individual pending investigation.

6.6 Veterinary Involvement

Where available, a vet may be present or on-call at major events. In their absence, experienced judges or clinicians may assess horses for soundness. WES officials are empowered to act in the best interest of the horse, even if this overrules a rider's preference.

6.7 Public Scrutiny and Social Licence

WES recognises the equestrian world is under increased public scrutiny following high-profile welfare failures. We expect riders to model ethical horsemanship; will act against practices that harm our public credibility; encourage filming, transparency, and open conversation; and welcome feedback from members, spectators, and partner bodies. The burden of proof is on us to show that horses in our care are respected, safe, and well-treated.

7. Related Policies and References

• Disciplinary Procedure (WES-POL-0021)
• Safeguarding Policy (WES-POL-0020)
• Code of Conduct
• BEF Equine Welfare Guidelines
• BHS Charter for the Horse
• WES Rule Book (for competition conduct)
• Welfare Concern Reporting Form (Templates and Tools)

8. Compliance and Breach Handling

Any breach of this policy - whether deliberate or negligent - will be taken seriously. WES may: intervene at the event; initiate formal investigation; refer to external welfare or legal authorities; and suspend membership or role involvement. Welfare breach records will be retained for 6 years from case closure.

9. Review and Version Control

10. Approval Record