BGA Survey, Supported by Absorbine Generates Huge Response

A national survey which has exposed the shocking truth about employment in the equestrian industry has sent waves through the industry and sparked a number of emotionally fuelled responses, forcing employers and Governing Bodies to address the situation.

The results from the survey, which attracted nearly 1,100 grooms and 160 employers, were made public on April 3 showed that an alarming number of grooms are working illegally. Grooms, employers and parents have all responded passionately to the results which have highlighted the need for immediate modernisation.

The survey was conducted by the British Grooms Association (BGA) with the support of Absorbine, who offered two luxury hampers of grooming products as an added incentive for people to complete the survey. Absorbine’s European marketing manager, Rachael Holdsworth said, “We are incredibly proud to support such a worthwhile survey to establish the real facts about the employment of grooms and to help the BGA continue their excellent work supporting British Grooms”. 

Winner of one of the Absornine Hampers, Eventing groom Chloe Lees said “I am not at all surprised by the results. So many people I know working with horses are employed illegally. It is great that the BGA has been able to highlight this and hopefully changes will now take place.”
BGA Executive Director Lucy Katan said, “The results have come as no surprise but what is now important is how we implement the changes that are desperately needed. We are working with grooms and employers to help modernisation to take place and will continue to fight for these changes.”

The survey was conducted under the auspices of the BGA by Dr. Kate Calamatta and Georgina Brooke-Holmes. For more information and for full results visit www.britishgrooms.org.uk.