These are exceptional times for British horseracing and breeding, times that could have a lasting effect on the industry. For Racing Welfare the financial impact of Covid-19 has been severe. The charity is experiencing a significant drop in income as fundraising events and activities have been cancelled. With no certainty as to when these events may be rearranged, the charity faces a loss of fundraising income amounting to £500,000 in 2020.
This has come at a time when Racing Welfare is experiencing a notable increase in demand for their services. The Covid-19 crisis has affected many people who may never have had to apply for welfare support before and the racing and breeding industry is no different. The charity’s online self-help usage has gone up significantly since the Covid-19 outbreak and support of individuals has increased by 290%; between the 17th March and the 7th April, the charity supported a total of 551 individuals with Covid-19 related issues.
The restrictions imposed by the Government have also meant the charity has had to change the way it operates. With face to face visits no longer possible, the charity’s team of welfare officers have been reaching out to their local communities in new ways.
It is clear that Racing Welfare are needed now more than ever and the positive impact of their work can be seen in yards and studs nationwide. Chasemore Farm in Surrey are just one of the studs who have benefited from Racing Welfare’s support. Chasemore’s local welfare officer, Katy Ferguson, has been making contact with local yards and studs in her area to reassure everyone that Racing Welfare is still very much in operation, and to signpost anyone who may need support to the wide range of services we can offer, including the recently launched Covid-19 hardship grants.
Sophie Watmuff, spokeswoman for Chasemore Farm, said:
The Racing Welfare Emergency Covid-19 Appeal has been kick-started by a wonderful donation of £50,000 from a prominent figure within the industry who wishes to remain anonymous, but there is still a long way to go. You can support Racing Welfare now by donating on this Just Giving page and sharing it with your friends and families: justgiving.com/campaign/RWEmergencyAppeal