Travel across long distances is built-in to equestrian sports. This often requires athletes, coaches, and grooms to travel over multiple days and lodge near the event.

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It is common for employees and athletes to stay in horse boxes or lorries, sometimes with people in positions of power such as coaches or employers. These arrangements offer minimal privacy, and sometimes people are required to share a bed with someone they have a professional relationship with.

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Since many children (under 18s) work as grooms or volunteers, these arrangements have resulted in children lodging with non-related adults without sufficient supervision, safeguards, or privacy. This also applies to workplace lodging for employees, which leave little separation between work and home.

It is okay to question the appropriateness of your child’s lodging arrangements, even when certain practices are normalised. The safety and wellbeing of your child is the most important thing.

Lodging and travel guidelines:

• Adults should never share a room or bed with a child (under 18) unless an exception exists.
• Advance written consent from parents must be obtained for each specific lodging arrangement. This consent can be withdrawn at any time.
• Wherever possible, parents should travel with children and supervise during overnight stays.
• Annual written consent between an adult participant (groom, athlete, employee) and the ‘organisation’ (employer, yard owner) must be obtained for lodging arrangements organised by the organisation. This consent can be withdrawn at any time.

If you have experienced abuse enabled by inappropriate lodging arrangements, EQUISS is here to help. We provide independent, confidential support to help you understand your options and talk through practical steps at your pace. Our free, confidential support line is open 08:30-16:30, Monday-Friday. Call 08000 308 800 or email helpcentre@equiss.org.uk