Volunteering
The dedication and passion of equestrian volunteers is what makes so many activities and events possible.
Anyone can volunteer:
There is a vast range of volunteering roles within the equestrian sector, from horse care at your local centre, to fence judging at events and even business roles behind the scenes of equestrian organisations. You don’t need equestrian experience to get involved!
It’s a great way to meet people, make new friends and support the sport you love whilst gaining experience, growing in confidence and learning new skills (also excellent for your CV).
Thinking of becoming a volunteer?
Before getting started, think about: 
- What interests or excites you: Is it the horses themselves, helping other people or running events?
- What skills you can use or are keen to learn: With so many opportunities available, this might help you narrow down your options.
- Get researching: Read how to get involved below, and head to our member body websites for more opportunities.
what opportunities are available?
Local equestrian Centre/ Club/ Group
If you’re watching your child at a lesson, or thinking about getting back into riding but not too sure where to start, why not try volunteering at your local centre, club or group?
Your involvement could have a great impact, this may include helping to lead horses during lessons, supporting events, horse care and helping out with social media, to name a few.
Visit our Where to ride tool to find your local equestrian centre for further opportunities.
Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA)
RDA provides equine assisted therapy, learning and activities for those with physical and learning disabilities, run by 13,000 volunteers at nearly 500 centres across the UK. Their volunteering training offers many learning and skill developing opportunities.
Equestrian Events/ competitions
There are many volunteering and officiating roles at events and competitions across the country including fence judging, writing for judges, scoring, time keeping and stewarding.
Training for these can be provided by the competition organisers, so don’t worry if you have no previous experience.
Find the opportunities on your member body webpage:
Equestrian Charities
There are many charities who work to rescue horses or improve welfare and rely on volunteers to improve care and welfare across the country, there may be a local rescue centre near you.
World Horse Welfare
World Horse Welfare has four rescue and rehoming centres and are always looking for volunteers to help care for the horses or work behind the scenes.
Young Equestrian Leaders Award (YELA)
The Pony Club
YELA provides tiered awards for volunteering in equestrian sport for those aged between 13 and 25.
This award scheme is designed to support young volunteers to become equestrian leaders of the future by recognising the time and effort young volunteers give to the sport, and the skills that they gain.
Further opportunities with The Pony Club can be found here.
National Volunteers' Week
Volunteers' Week is an annual campaign that celebrates the fantastic contribution that millions of volunteers make across the UK as well as providing support and advice to those new to volunteering.
