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Celebrating home grooms

1st November 2023
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We’re on a mission to shine the light on ALL grooms, and right now that spotlight is pointing at home grooms.

If it wasn’t for these important warriors keeping the yard going, it simply wouldn’t be possible for the riders to go away to compete.

So, THANK YOU, home grooms all around the world!

We caught up with a fantastic home groom, Denise Williams, who is the Yard Groom for Yasmin Ingham.

On a sunny afternoon we met with Denise at Pewit Hall in Cheshire. Denise has worked at Pewit for seven and a half years.

 

At what age did you know you wanted to work with horses?

“I started riding when I was eight years old and by nine, I had my first little job. I would muck out, clean tack, and help where I could, in exchange for riding lessons. I ended up staying there for twenty years! I completed an apprenticeship during this time too.”

 

What do you do for fun?

“I groom! When I am not working at Pewit, I groom for my partner and help with our horses at shows. I also enjoy walking, especially with my dog Gallie.”

 

If you didn’t groom, what career would interest you?

“I always wanted to join the police, in the dog section, but I think I was born to groom!”

 

What is your best groom’s tip?

“Clean your brushes! Keeping your kit clean makes everything so much easier!”

 

Do you have any funny stories you can share with us?

“I have one – it’s a bit embarrassing but that’s ok! I worked in Australia for Tim Boland. I was out hacking one day and had a bit of a wedgie! So, I stood up in my stirrups and the horse spooked and I fell off! He was huge too so I had to lead him for ages to find somewhere I could get back on him!”


Do you have any advice for young grooms who are just starting their careers?

“I would say go for it. Everything is achievable if you really want it.”

 

 

Quick Fire Questions:

Pizza or Pasta? - Pasta
Chocolate or Crips? - Chocolate
Cocktails or Wine? - Cocktails
Pool or Beach? - Beach
Dogs or Cats? - Dogs
Dressage or Showjumping? - Dressage

 

Why are you a member of the BGA?

“I joined for insurance and career advice. The Value for money with BGA Membership is brilliant. There are so many benefits, I really recommend it.”

 

Join Denise and 1000’s of other grooms who are members of the BGA - belong to your professional association.

 

Why Join the BGA?

The BGA is your organisation that supports, represents, and champions the career of all grooms. As a BGA member you will enjoy discounted insurance policies, education, and support. 

 

JOIN US

Be part of a community of grooms, just like you. 

If you would like to become a BGA member, have a look at our membership options, from as little as 49 pence per week. 

 

BGA MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS

 

 



BLOG ARCHIVE

 
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What the personal accident policy covers you for:

  • Whilst at work
  • All stable duties – mucking out, grooming, washing off, turning out
  • Clipping
  • Riding – including hacking and jumping
  • Hunting
  • Lunging
  • Breaking in
  • Holding horse for a vet and other procedures
  • Travelling horses both in the UK and abroad
  • Competing in line with your job including: jumping, dressage, eventing
  • Injuries that may happen to you whilst you are teaching - but you must also be grooming as part of your duties and not be a sole instructor

What the personal accident policy doesn’t cover you for:

  • Riding in a race, point to point or team chase
  • Stunt Riding
  • Accidents occurring whilst travelling to and from work
  • Riding and competing your own horse (but you can upgrade when applying for membership to include this)
  • Public Liability – this is a separate insurance policy - the Freelance Groom Liability Insurance
  • Care Custody and Control – this is a separate policy - the Freelance Groom Liability Insurance

If you require additional cover then please contact KBIS directly.

   GROOM  RIDER  EMPLOYER

When you are working for other people you do most of the following; muck out, turn out/catch in, tack up, groom horses, exercise Horses (including hacking, jumping and schooling), in the care of your employer/client.

 
YES

 
NO

 
NO

Predominantly ride horses for other people including schooling, exercising and competing.   
NO
 
YES

YES
 Provide grooming services for someone else either full time or on a freelance basis i.e. an employer or a client.   
YES

NO

NO
Employ staff – have an employers liability policy in your name NO NO YES
Buy and sell horses NO YES YES