Wednesday, 03 May 2023
Riders Minds are delighted to announce that riders and grooms at Badminton Horse Trials will have direct access to on-site mental health and well-being support, in a pioneering step that acknowledges the importance of competitor’s mental health.
In an inaugural move for equestrianism, mental health charity, Riders Minds are providing a well-being hub, with an on-site counsellor, for the duration of the event.
Victoria Wright, Founder and Chair of Riders Minds said, “This is the first time that this has ever happened in equestrian sport, and it is fantastic that the FEI have recognised the importance of facilitating this service and that it is being pioneered by Badminton Horse Trials.
It’s a huge step forwards to have the acknowledgement from the International Olympic Committee and the FEI, and for the sport to recognise that there is a need for mental health support within all of the equestrian disciplines.”
Dr Anna-Louise Mackinnon, Chief Medical Officer at British Equestrian added, “Mental health promotion is high on the FEI medical committee’s agenda. Riders Minds and the introduction of mental health support at equestrian events, starting with Badminton Horse Trials, is a great step towards raising awareness, and helping to deliver the support that many riders and grooms may require.”
Badminton Horse Trials Event Director Jane Tuckwell said, “We are looking forward to Riders Minds having a presence at Badminton and we are pleased to be supporting their work.”
“As we approach our third birthday, it is a great testament to the excellent work Riders Minds have been doing as a charity over the last few years and we hope that it will encourage even more equestrians to utilise our free resources” added Victoria.
The service will run within the stables at Badminton with set times where riders and grooms can call in and talk to a Riders Minds counsellor, as well access to an out of hours number should an emergency arise, or simply use the hub for some quiet time in a safe space.
To find out more about Riders Minds and to access the live chat go to https://ridersminds.org/. If you would like to talk to someone call the helpline on 0300 102 1540, or text 07860 065 202. All of the Riders Minds services are free, 100% confidential and accessible 24 hours a day.
Up-to-date information on Badminton Horse Trials can be found at: https://www.badminton-horse.co.uk/.