BEF update: Coronavirus (COVID-19) advice and help available for equine industry businesses and employers
Monday 23 March 2020
The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) would like to thank the equestrian community for their current support during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. These are unprecedented times for society in general and we all need to play a part in helping to manage and restrict the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). The Government’s messaging for social distancing, avoiding unnecessary travel and shielding is growing ever stronger in light of some individuals choosing not to adhere to the guidance. As such, our advice for the cessation of all organised equine activity remains in place in order to support Government recommendations to stay at home wherever possible.
Organised activity includes traveling your horse for lessons or schooling, having a trainer to your yard, having a lesson at a riding centre and riding in large groups. However, we actively encourage enjoying your horse in the fresh air due to its benefits to your wellbeing and mental health, and those responsible for the care of a horse can still travel to care for and exercise them, either in an arena (preferably outdoors) or on a hack, provided you strictly follow the current Public Health England guidelines when visiting. If you keep horses at home, please keep up with the information on hygiene. It’s also important to be aware that health services in the UK is currently stretched to capacity, so consider avoiding any activities that might carry an increased risk of injury, such as riding a fresh or young horse.
Advice and support for equestrian businesses and employees
We recognise that this advice has far-reaching implications for a number of our stakeholder groups, and that businesses and individuals will be hit financially. The UK Government has announced an initial £330 billion of help through number of measures to help, which we’ve summarised as a guide to help those in need access the assistance available.
Vital links
Gov.uk: COVID-19: support for businesses
GOV.UK: COVID-19: guidance for employees
Helpful link for small businesses and those who are self-employed
National Federation of Self Employed and Small Businesses
Businesses and employees
For all UK businesses, there is support through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme where all employers can access support to continue to pay part of their employees’ salaries for those who would have otherwise been laid off during this crisis. On 20 March, the following measures were announced/expanded upon:
- The introduction of a new job retention scheme will cover up to 80% of wage costs up to a cap of £2,500 per month, backdated to 1 March for a period of three months or longer, if needed, for small businesses, charities and not-for-profit organisations. Grants due to be available to business within weeks. More info is available from GOV.UK
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