WES CONSTITUTION UPDATED — NINE CHANGES APPROVED BY MEMBERS
At the March 2026 Annual General Meeting, our members voted to approve nine important updates to the WES Constitution. These changes reflect how the Society has evolved, and set out more clearly how we work together as a community.
The revised constitution is published in the policy hub and may be found here
Here's what changed, and why it matters.
EXPANDING OUR REACH
We've updated our core objective to recognise that western equitation is now practised to high standards right across the world - not just in the United States. This reflects the global conversation we're part of, and opens the door for WES to engage with western riders and organisations beyond the traditional USA-focused model.
WORKING TOGETHER ON WESTERN RIDING
One of the biggest shifts is how we approach other western organisations. Rather than discouraging certain events, we're now committed to actively collaborating with other western groups — particularly those running timed events like barrel racing and pole bending — to make sure everyone understands the importance of maintaining good welfare standards and public support for western riding. It's a more constructive, partnership-based approach.
RECOGNISING OUR PROFESSIONALS
We've formally updated our language to reflect the Professional category of membership we introduced a few years ago. This change runs through several sections of the Constitution and makes sure our approved WES Professionals are properly recognised in our governance framework.
SETTING OUT HOW WE WORK TOGETHER
This is the biggest cultural addition. The Constitution now includes a new section on Pan-WES Values — four principles that describe not just what we do, but how we do it as a Society.
These values are:
- Respect the Ride, Respect Each Other, Respect the Horse. We treat our horses, our members, and our community with care. Welfare comes first. We support each other with encouragement, not criticism.
- Celebrate Every Step Forward. Every milestone counts — whether it's a first attempt or a polished performance. Progress is personal, and we recognise effort, commitment, and growth.
- Share Knowledge, Build Confidence. We grow together as a community. When we share advice, we do it with generosity and care, helping each other feel capable and supported.
- Many Voices, Common Objectives. We welcome riders of all backgrounds, abilities, disciplines, and breeds. Diversity makes us stronger, and we listen to and learn from each other.
These values capture what many of you already live out in your Areas and at our events. Now they're written into who we are as a Society.
MAKING AREA FINANCES CLEARER
We've tightened the rules around Area bank accounts to make sure funds are always properly managed and never held in personal accounts. We've also set clearer deadlines for Areas to submit their accounts — no later than one month before the National AGM — so the Society Treasurer has time to review them properly.
GETTING THE ACCOUNTING RIGHT
Finally, we've updated our language around how the Society's accounts are checked. We don't need formal audited accounts as a not-for-profit membership society, but we do need to provide proper assurance to members that their money is being managed correctly and following recognised accounting processes. The Constitution now reflects this accurately.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU
These changes don't alter how you experience WES day-to-day. What they do is make sure our Constitution describes who we actually are as a Society — more global, more collaborative, more values-driven, and more transparent about how we manage our money.
If you have questions about any of these changes, drop us a line at dan@wes-uk.com. We're here to help