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WHY I AM A MEMBER
“The bespoke information has been invaluable for my career and employment; I don’t feel alone anymore. I have the peace of mind knowing my income is protected with my BGA insurance.”
Jenny Hooch
BGA Member
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Shropshire
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A GROOMS LIFE BLOG
Kerry is one of the most well-known grooms on the British and International jumping circuits having worked for four of the best riders in the world. The BGA’s Zoe Hargreaves caught up with Kerry earlier in the year at Bolesworth International where she was busy with seven horses! Kerry certainly had her hands full, but she still managed to step away for a few moments to tell us a little bit about life grooming for legends. “I wanted to work with horses from the age of nine, so an apprenticeship after school was the begining of my journey. After the apprenticeship I worked for a few different riders - Tim Brown (5 years), Michael Whitaker (13 years) and Billy Twomey (6 years). At that point I tried six months freelancing, but it wasn’t for me so in 2018 I went to work for John Whitaker and I’m still here enjoying my role.” “Be committed to the end goal – everyone can make it as an international groom, you just must have the patience and passion to get there! Also, keep healthy with what you eat and drink, as you need good stamina to see you through the day.” “Oh wow – there are so many to choose from. The Nations Cup win at Hickstead was pretty special. It was John’s 180th Nations Cup and to win was just incredible. I really adore the horse he won on - Equine America Unick de Francport, Frank at home! When John bought him, I went to collect him to bring him back to the yard and we have had a strong bond ever since. I am so proud of the way he has developed - It’s been quite a journey, so it made it even more special.” “This is a tricky question! I have been lucky to visit some amazing places in the world, so I am quite relaxed about where we go next. Although, I am really looking forward to going to Calgary again – I love it there.” “There are so many! I do remember one though; I was driving to Millstreet with Billy Twomey, (I had a broken toe and was hoping for a short journey). The venue didn’t have a postcode, so I put into the sat nav the coordinates. I realised too late that there are two Millstreet’s in Ireland, and we were about four hours away from the correct Millstreet!!” “I joined originally for the insurance when I became a freelance groom, and I still have it now even though I am employed – it just makes sense to me." Be like Kerry and belong to your professional association – 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. 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.
A groom for legends
How did you start out being a groom?
Do you have any tips for new grooms who are just starting out?
Ask questions, look at what other grooms are doing and be prepared to learn.
What has been your proudest moment as a groom to date?
What are your hopes for your future as a groom?
Do you have any funny stories you can share with us?
You have been a member of the BGA for many years – why did you join?
I think it is essential for grooms to have their own association which looks out for us and offers so many benefits – I think all grooms should belong.”
Why Join the BGA?
JOIN US
BLOG ARCHIVE
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. |
|
|
|
| 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 |
The BGA is the national representative body for all
grooms working in the UK or British grooms abroad.
MEMBERS OF:
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