05/11/2020
Lockdown #2 - BEF update summary (16.02pm) answering the questions you need to know (this applies to England only).
Q: Do I have to close my riding school or livery yard?
A: No, the legislation did not include the mandatory closure of ridings schools or livery yards, BUT owners need to comply with all the other legislation associated with how people can meet and interact outdoors.
Q: Does that mean I can still provide lessons?
A: Yes but there are restrictions. You can give lessons on a ONE-TO-ONE basis, to a group that constitutes the same social bubble or as part of a formal training and education. Formal training comprises courses such as the CIEC, BHS, BTEC etc. Education could include where a school regularly books a riding as part of their curriculum.
Q: Can my livery clients come to the yard?
A: Yes, clients can travel from their homes to care for their horse(s) but journeys should be as short and infrequent as possible
Q: Can my clients ride their horses?
A: Yes, Outdoor exercise (individual or with members of their household (own or linked), or one other person who is not a member of their household) is permitted in a public outdoor place. This should be done for exercise purposes only (horse welfare) and ideally start and end at the yard where the horse is kept.
Q: Is hacking allowed?
A: Yes
Q: Can horses be boxed and travel for exercise?
A: Yes, to a public outdoor place such a park, forest or beach for exercise (where horses are permitted) but journeys should be as short and infrequent as possible.
Q: Can I use my Arena?
A: Yes, subject to social distancing and number restrictions. Clients may box and travel their horse(s) a short distance to use a private arena for exercise purposes.
Q: Are visits by vets, equine dentists and physiotherapists permitted?
A: Yes, subject to social distancing.
Q: Are competitions and organised training permitted?
A: No, All competition and organised training has been suspended by British Equestrian.
Q: Can I still coach?
A: Yes, Coaches may continue to operate. Sessions should be delivered on a one-to-one basis. There are no limits on the number of sessions a coach may provide each day.
Read the full statement here: https://bit.ly/3k34jrn