British Equestrian and Sport in Mind launch new mental health toolkit
British Equestrian has launched a new Mental Health Toolkit in partnership with Sport in Mind, aimed at supporting mental health and wellbeing across the equestrian community.
The toolkit was unveiled at the London International Horse Show, where Sport in Mind is the official show charity. Designed as an accessible digital resource, the toolkit helps anyone involved in equestrian activities better understand mental health and feel more confident supporting others who may be struggling.
With around one in four people in the UK experiencing a mental health problem each year, the toolkit provides clear, practical guidance for use in a wide range of equestrian settings. It is relevant for coaches, volunteers, parents, participants and centre managers, highlighting how small actions and improved awareness can make a meaningful difference.
The resource covers a broad range of mental health topics, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating problems, bipolar disorder, self-harm, neurodiversity and post-traumatic stress disorder. By improving understanding, the toolkit aims to help equestrians recognise potential concerns, approach conversations with confidence and empathy, and foster more supportive environments.
Sub heading***Who is the toolkit for
The Mental Health Toolkit is designed for everyone involved in equestrian activity, at any level and in any role. It serves as a starting point for building awareness and understanding how mental health issues may present, supported by practical tips, signposting, case studies and guidance to help create a more inclusive and mentally healthy equestrian community.
Speaking at ExCeL, Adam Hughes, Strategic Lead for Relationships at British Equestrian, said, “It’s incredibly fulfilling to produce and share information that can help everyone across the equestrian community support each other with mental health. The more background knowledge we have, the better we can understand one another and help create environments where everyone feels comfortable, included and able to enjoy their time with horses.”
Neil Harris, CEO at Sport in Mind, added, “This resource is designed to support riders, coaches and volunteers in better understanding mental health, highlighting how sport can play a vital role in wellbeing, and ensuring those on the ground have the tools they need to help the people who need it most.”
Working together since 2024 under a shared mission to transform lives through equestrian activities and mental wellbeing, British Equestrian and Sport in Mind say the toolkit is the first of several resources planned as part of their ongoing partnership.
View the toolkit here: View the toolkit here.