Grooms demand better recognition at Forum
A Grooms’ Forum took place on Thursday (1 June) at
the BHS Headquarters in Stoneleigh, Warwickshire.
Many grooms and employers were present at the Forum to express
and share their views on the role of grooms in the equestrian
industry.
The forum was introduced by a horse-wise panel including:
Patrick Print FBHS, Chairman of the BHS, Carole Broad FBHS,
Chair of the BHS Examinations Advisory Group, Lucy Katan,
BEF Grooms’ Representative, Lorna Cameron, professional
groom, and Lulu Kyriacou, professional groom and freelance
journalist.
The Forum consisted of presentations by the panel, working
groups and an open forum chaired by Patrick Print.
The general consensus is that grooms deserve better recognition
and respect throughout the industry and from their employers.
Kirsten Holmes, former groom of Tim Stockdale, said: “This
forum is a good starting block to improve the current situation
for grooms, but there is still a long way to go before reaching
the targets discussed today.”
Patrick Print said: “There have been many good ideas
and positive thoughts displayed today. At the BHS we hope
this is something the equestrian industry as a whole will
take forward.”
Lulu Kyriacou said: “As a groom I should at least be
able to earn a living, but I have to supplement my wage by
writing. Many other grooms have similar problems.”
The Grooms’ Forum ended on a positive note as those
attending left the BHS Headquarters with high hopes for the
future and agreeing that this Forum was a step in the right
direction. Initiatives discussed will be taken forward in
the near future.
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