News

British Showjumping introduces changes to strengthen welfare of young competitors

Thursday, 01 October 2026

At British Showjumping, the welfare of all members, particularly children and young people, is our highest priority. We are committed to ensuring that everyone involved in our sport feels safe, supported and respected at every level of participation.

Following concerns about the increasing demands placed on children competing in the sport, British Showjumping commissioned an independent safeguarding review by Lime Culture, a leading UK safeguarding consultancy specialising in improving the safety and wellbeing of children and adults in sport and other organisations.

Members from across the sport, including parents, officials, coaches and riders, were consulted and shared their experiences as part of the review. The current competition structure and its impact on the wellbeing of children participating at every level of the sport were also considered. Many participants highlighted that competing at shows alongside their friends, in a fun and supportive environment, was a key driver of their participation.

Stephanie Reardon, CEO at Lime Culture spoke positively of the process: “It was a pleasure to work with British Showjumping on this important review. We saw first-hand their proactive approach to safeguarding and their clear commitment to understanding the experiences of those involved in the sport. From the outset, there was a willingness to listen to different perspectives and to reflect openly on what is working well, where approaches could bestrengthened, and how safeguarding practice can continue to develop.

We were particularly encouraged by British Showjumping’s response to the findings and its commitment to taking forward the recommendations. Turning recommendations into meaningful action is an important part of strengthening safeguarding practice and demonstrates a commitment to learning and continuous improvement.”

The review produced 39 recommendations to promote fair participation, protect child and pony welfare, and enhance enjoyment of the sport.

Implementation is continuing, with positive action already taken across several key areas:

• Competition scheduling: British Showjumping has worked closely with Show Organisers to plan the Junior show calendar around school holidays and avoid examination periods affecting specific age groups.
• Consistent safeguarding presence: All affiliated show venues have appointed Safeguarding Officers to help maintain clear and consistent safeguarding standards and expectations across competition environments.
• Learning and progression: The updated Star Performance Awards encourage Members to look beyond competitive success, with guidance on rider wellbeing, horse welfare and the rules of the sport. This skills-based progression system places rider development and safety at the heart of training within British Showjumping.
• Trusted professional support: British Showjumping has promoted a register of qualified and accredited coaches, trainers and other professionals, supported by practical information to help Members and Parents make informed choices when selecting a Coach or Trainer.
• Competitive environments: The minimum ages of competitors and the environments in which they compete in has been reviewed to support the recommended safeguarding changes. From 2029, children aged 12 and under will no longer be eligible to compete at shows with paying spectators. This includes events such as the Royal International Horse Show, Horse of the Year Show and London International Horse Show. Classes such as the 128cm at the Winter Pony Premiers will qualify to the Spring (Pony) Championships, while the 128cm at the Summer Pony Premiers will qualify for the National Championships from 2029.

The change is intended to provide an environment that better supports the welfare and wellbeing of younger competitors, while recognising the additional pressures associated with competing at major, high-profile spectator events.

Iain Graham, CEO at British Showjumping said: “Lime Culture’s in-depth review has helped us take positive action to safeguard the future and integrity of our sport and, above all, the welfare of our young competitors. We have made significant progress in implementing the recommendations and remain committed to delivering lasting change.”

The roll out of recommendations from the review form part of British Showjumping’s wider commitment to ensuring that Showjumping remains a safe, supportive and enjoyable sport for children, young people, families, ponies and everyone involved.