FAQ's

I’m working overtime but not getting paid for it. What are my rights?

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Employers aren’t always required to pay workers for overtime.However, your average pay for the total hours you work must not fall below the National Minimum Wage.

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If you have an overtime clause in your contract, and itstates you will be paid for overtime, you should be paid the amount agreed inyour contract.

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Generally, normal working hours should not exceed 48 hoursper week (less if you are under 18*). You can agree to work more, but this mustbe your choice and agreed in writing.

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If you operate a vehicle as part of your work, you may not bepermitted to work more than 48 hours per week. Please contact our EmploymentAdvice Line for information on working hours.

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*Under 18s can work a maximum of 8 hours per day, 40 hoursper week in the UK. In Ireland, rules vary depending on age and the type ofwork, find out more here.

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I heard the yard manager making inappropriate sexual comments to a groom. Should I say something?

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Sexual comments have no place at work, especially if they are coming from a more powerful person (yard manager to groom).

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If you can, find a moment to talk privately to the groom. Let them know what you heard, and that you’re willing to support them as a witness if they want to escalate it.

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You should also let them know that EQUISS has a free, confidential support line they can call if they want to talk about what happened and explore options to take it further.

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Remember: Witnessing something can be distressing. Even if it didn’t happen to you, you can always call our support line for advice on how to navigate situations like this.

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My boss told me to [horse abuse example] but I know it’s against welfare codes. They threatened to sack me if I don’t do it. How do I say no?

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[Example] is animal abuse, which is illegal in the UK and Ireland.

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You are never required to follow instructions that cause harm and suffering to an animal. The Animal Welfare Act 2006 places a duty of care on anyone responsible for an animal, meaning that carrying out abusive instructions could make you personally liable, regardless of who gave the order.

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We know it can be difficult to refuse instructions from employers, especially if your job is at risk. If you find yourself in this situation, refuse instructions calmly but firmly and document what you witnessed or were asked to do (include dates, times, what was said, any witnesses).

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Your employer cannot threaten you into doing something illegal. Please contact the EQUISS support line for advice and support on how to escalate this with the appropriate authorities.

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The boiler broke in my employer-provided accommodation, and I can’t access hot water. My employer said if I want it to be fixed, the cost will be deducted from my wages. Is this legal?

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Employer-provided accommodation should provide basic facilities such as heating and running water. It is illegal to deduct repair costs from your wages* or for any accommodation costs (repairs, rent or bills) bring your wage below minimum wage.

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In most cases, your employer is responsible for maintaining your accommodation and paying for repairs. In this situation you should:

Document evidence of the broken boiler and communication with your employer about the issue.
Ask for the repair in writing – inform them about the issue, how long it has gone on for, and ask for a date for repair. ‍
Get advice from housing organisations – EQUISS can help you to access this from the appropriate authorities in your area.

*Your rights may vary depending on where you live and if you are a tenant, service occupier or licensee. If you are unsure about your rights, please contact the EQUISS Employment Advice Line.

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In winter, I have to work alone in the dark. It makes me feel scared, what can I do?

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Your employer has a duty to provide a safe working environment. Working in the dark is a health and safety risk, especially if you’re alone and handling horses.

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There are practical things you can do, such as using a headtorch and implementing a check-in system with your employer or a colleague so they know where you are.

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You can also ask your employer to improve the environment, such as better lighting and security measures. You can also ask to adjust schedules, so riskier tasks can be completed during daylight hours or in pairs.

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Your safety must come first. If you believe a task or environment poses serious and imminent danger to your safety, you can refuse the work. You should raise any concerns in writing and explain why you believe it is unsafe. Please contact EQUISS Employment Advice Line for advice on safe working practices.

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