Money Matters and Talking to your Boss

I’m sure a lot of you have seen or heard about the rise in National Minimum Wage (NMW) from the 1st April (not an April fools joke), yay! Pay in the equine industry and especially for grooms has always been a bit of a controversial subject.

Grooms across all disciplines have, for many years, not been getting the pay and entitlements they deserve. With this increase (small I know, but its better than nothing), and the government and authorities clamping down on employers who are breaking the law, hopefully now grooms can get the pay they deserve and are entitled to.

Currently this now stands at:

For over 25’s its gone up to £7.83ph
18 – 20 its gone up to £5.90ph
21 – 24 its gone up to £7.38ph
Under 18’s £4.20ph
And apprentices (under 19 or in their first year) £3.70ph

These may not seem like big increases but it is a small step in the right direction. If you are unsure on exactly how much you should be being paid then the BGA website has loads of information on the NMW and what other deductions can be made for things like accommodation, training and livery. As well as paying the NMW all employers must offer a pension scheme, this is something you can opt out of at a later date if you wish.

Contracts (lack of them) have always been a big issue in the industry, but by law all employers must provide a written contract (written statement of terms). Your contract should include things like pay, holiday entitlement, sick pay, notice period, rights, responsibilities and duties to name a few. Make sure you read your contract thoroughly and ask someone else to double check it before signing. You should also keep a copy on file yourself. If you don’t have one then point your boss in the direction on the Equestrian Employers Association where they can use the Contract Creator.

Do you dread having conversations with your boss about any of these awkward subjects such as pay, contracts or holidays?

These conversations shouldn’t make you feel uncomfortable or like you shouldn’t be allowed to ask for holiday or discuss your wages. At the end of the day you work hard and are entitled to these things, as you would be in any other job.

If you get worried or nervous try writing down what you want to say and you could ask a colleague to be there with you. Ask to speak to your boss so you are not doing it in the middle of a busy yard.
When it comes to booking holiday be sure to ask in plenty of time and check dates before booking anything, there may be specifics in your contract that says you can’t take holiday during peak season so be sure to double check this.

My advice to anyone is to do your research and know exactly what you are entitled to and communicate with your boss. If you are still unsure then I recommend getting in contact with the team at the British Grooms Association and they can help advise you on all of the above matters.

If you want access to lots of information about pay, contracts, employement, terms and practical advice on your employment then join the BGA today. 

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