4 Common pitfalls of employing staff

and how to avoid them

This week’s blog is for all those interested in knowing more about the facts about employing staff; in particular, matters concerning employee wages, accommodation charges, holiday entitlements and finally sick pay, income tax, national insurance and pensions.

Linda Hudson has in the last 10 years worked in both college and private training organisations and now kindly offers us all a short review with some handy hints, tips and links for good measure!

The information provided is given in good faith, but do ensure that the information you are working to is correct and appropriate for your specific circumstances and double-check with a suitably qualified professional.

Linda possesses that rare ability which most of us appreciate, which is to be able to demystify the nuts and bolts of a normally quite complicated subject in just about the time it would take you to make and drink a nice cup of coffee. Time well spend these days on both counts I am sure you’d agree.

Thanks, Linda.

Caroline

Keeping employing staff simple

by Linda Hudson

4 common pitfalls of employing staff and how to avoid them - Employment Law When I was Autumn hunting many years ago I saw a bad accident caused by a ‘blind ditch’ and it left me with a fear of riding at speed across Autumn long grass which has remained with me to this day. As many of you will know, at this time of year the long grass falls over, or into, little ditches and they become ‘blind’ or hidden. An accident waiting to happen.

Being unaware of the law as it relates to us when employing staff can cause the same kind of sudden mishap. Most equine employers intend to stay on the right side of the law but, as the old saying goes, ‘ignorance is no defence’ when you get it wrong. When you are an employer there are quite a few ‘blind ditches’, or pitfalls as you might call them, that are easy to stumble into as time passes. Here are a few hints on what to watch out for if you employ anyone – including apprentices.

Pitfall 1:

Miscalculating wages

You will have heard of the National Minimum Wage, and you should also be aware of the National Living Wage because this falls into minimum wage legislation. Did you know, though, that there are now five minimum wage rates? Or that the apprentice minimum wage doesn’t apply to an apprentice who is aged 19 or over and has completed the first year of their apprenticeship?

These rates below are for the National Living Wage and the National Minimum Wage. The rates change every April. In recent years, several equine employers have fallen foul of this legislation quite unintentionally and some fines have been in the tens of thousands of pounds – enough to put many equine businesses out of business! Equine employers have been publicly ‘named and shamed’ by Government after HMRC investigations for breaches of this legislation amounting to as little as under £300 underpayment of their staff.

Handy Tip number 1: have a system so that you can keep an accurate record of hours actually worked by your staff (as opposed to contracted hours) and check this regularly. This allows you to pick up issues such as if a member of staff is struggling with an excessive workload or someone is staying at work unnecessarily after their own tasks have been completed and is counting this voluntary overtime in their own working time records.

Handy Tip number 2: Be clear about what constitutes working time and what doesn’t – for example, if you invite your apprentice to accompany you to a show during their time off, for the experience, but you don’t expect them to work as your main show grooms are in attendance. Even something as simple as making sure your employees understand that their lunch break is unpaid and doesn’t count towards working hours is important especially if they are a young apprentice and this is their first employed position. Voluntarily staying late (different from being asked to stay late) needs to be managed carefully.

Minimum wage rates 1st April 2021 – 31st March 2022

Year	23 and over	21 to 22	18 to 20	16-17	Apprentice
April 2023	£10.42	£10.18	£7.49	£5.28	£5.28

Apprentices

4 common pitfalls of employing staff and how to avoid them - Apprentice Wage Apprentices are entitled to the apprentice rate if they’re either:

aged under 19
aged 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship

Example An apprentice aged 22 in the first year of their apprenticeship is entitled to a minimum hourly rate of £5.28.

Apprentices are entitled to the minimum wage for their age if they both:

are aged 19 or over
have completed the first year of their apprenticeship

Example An apprentice aged 22 who has completed the first year of their apprenticeship is entitled to a minimum hourly rate of £10.18.

It’s an employer’s responsibility to be aware of the different minimum wage rates depending on the circumstances of their workers – and to make sure all eligible workers are paid at least the minimum rate they are entitled to.

Handy Tip Number 3: know your employee’s age and birthday. It’s a very nice gesture to give them a birthday card, but it’s essential to ensure you are paying the correct minimum wage!

Pitfall 2:

Knowing when and how to legally charge employees for their accommodation

When employing staff on a live-in basis and providing accommodation, it is important to consider whether you wish to make a deduction from wages for this or not and, if so, how much. Providing accommodation as part of a wage and benefits package can be helpful with regard to minimum wage calculations as a nominal value (accommodation offset rate) can be included towards the minimum wage.

The MAXIMUM accommodation charge which can be deducted from an apprentice is the ‘accommodation offset rate’ and is fixed by the government in April each year. From 1st April 2023 – 31st March 2024 it is £63.70 per week or £9.10 per day and is explained more fully here.

Note – this is maximum, and you may choose to deduct less than this but should not deduct more from an apprentice, or any other employee who is receiving the National Minimum/Living Wage.

There is no rule to say that employers must deduct an accommodation charge but if no deduction is made, the offset rate is added to the employee’s wage for the purposes of checking whether the applicable minimum wage is being paid.

It is feasible, though, if the accommodation is free, that the combined wage and benefit in kind could be later construed by HMRC as producing an unexpected tax and/or National Insurance liability later.

The offset rate can be counted towards the minimum wage but of course, the minimum wage itself is a MINIMUM and may be increased if an employer wishes to pay more. Many equine employers start an apprentice on the minimum wage but increase this as time goes by to reward progress and achievement, which helps with staff job satisfaction and retention.

When it is so difficult to recruit good apprentices another consideration for employers is that if you’re providing accommodation you can advertise your hourly rate of pay at the amount which includes the accommodation charge. For example, if you are paying £5.28 per hour for a 30 hour week this is £158.40 per week. Add on the accommodation offset rate of and the job can be advertised at a weekly wage of £222.10, or hourly rate of £7.40. This may attract more applicants but should, of course, state that there is a deduction for accommodation. Be careful with this though as you generally can’t pay different hourly rates for staff simply because they don’t live in.

If you provide free accommodation be careful and check with your accountant as in certain circumstances this could lead you to an accidental underpayment of National Insurance contributions or a failure to count your employee as eligible for Statutory Sick Pay – more on this later in the article.

Pitfall 3:

Neglecting or getting in a muddle over paid holidays

There is no doubt that it is better for business to give your staff time off – they come back refreshed, rested and with their enthusiasm restored especially after a long hard winter! But there are things you can do to ensure that staff holidays don’t cause disruption to your business.

All employees, including apprentices, are by law entitled to a total of at least 5.6 weeks of paid annual leave. There is no additional entitlement for Bank Holidays. The Government website is especially useful for calculating holiday entitlement for full time, part-time, irregular hours and hourly paid staff. There is also an easy-to-use calculator for part of a year. You can make use of these online facilities here.

Carrying leave over from one leave year to the next

Employees must take at least 4 weeks of statutory leave during the leave year, they may be able to carry over any remaining time off if their employer agrees. So if a worker gets 28 days of holiday, they may be able to carry over up to 8 days. Workers who receive statutory leave don’t have an automatic right to carry leave over to the next holiday year, but employers may agree to it.

Handy Tip number 4: make sure your contract of employment, employment offer letters or staff handbook state the start of your business’s holiday year. For example, does it run from 1^st January to 31 December? Or 1 April to 31 March? This is important for making sure that staff do take their allocated holiday within the year.

When employees are unable to take their leave entitlement because they’re already taking time off for different reasons, such as maternity or sick leave, they can carry over some or all of the untaken leave into the next leave year. An employer must allow a worker to carry over a maximum of 4 weeks if the worker is off sick and therefore unable to take their leave.

If an employee chooses not to take statutory annual leave during sick leave, they can carry forward the untaken leave for up to 18 months from the end of the leave year in which the leave arises. This means that if a leave year ends on the 31 December the worker would have 18 months after that date in which to take the annual leave for that year.

Handy Tip number 5: keep a written record of when staff are on holiday – especially odd days!

It can be challenging to organise cover for holidays and Caroline Carter Recruitment can assist with this but the key to effective cover is ensuring your staff give you adequate notice. If your contract of employment doesn’t state the notice you require, then you can’t insist on it. It’s usual to ask for at a week’s notice for one or two days’ holiday and two weeks ‘ notice for any more than this. It is possible to decline holiday requests which don’t meet these criteria or which need to be declined for reasonable needs of the business. But be wary of this – declining holiday requests is one of the quickest ways to cause your staff to become disenchanted with their job!

Handy Tip number 6: make sure your staff know what notice you expect for holiday requests – ideally in writing in their offer letter and contract of employment or staff handbook

There may be times of the year when you do not permit holidays to be taken. For example, if you always spend time away competing at a large international event and need all staff on hand to cover the show and home yard, you can state that no annual leave is permitted during this time. Again, make sure this is in writing and they are aware of it well in advance. Equally, you can specify that some of the annual holiday entitlement must be taken at a time to suit you. Christmas and New Year are common examples of this, especially with small, privately run competition yards where the yard owners prefer to cover the yard duties themselves.

There is no legal entitlement to Bank Holidays, including Christmas and New Year. However, all good employers will ensure that employees are able to spend some of the holiday period at home with their families and/or friends. Advance notice of what you expect, fair allocation of the days, and advance planning of the rota, are essential for a happy team.

Handy tip number 7: if there are times when you do not allow annual leave to be taken, or when you require some leave to be taken, this should be stated in your contract of employment

Pitfall 4:

Overlooking the finer details – sick pay, income tax, national insurance and pensions

Statutory Sick Pay

All employers have to pay Statutory Sick Pay to eligible employees who are absent due to sickness and the rate of SSP is set in April each year. For April 2023 – 2024 it is £99.35 per week and is paid for up to 28 weeks. Statutory Sick Pay starts after 4 ‘waiting days’ which includes non- working days, i.e. the first 4 days of sickness are unpaid and this includes non-working days.

If an employee earns less than the lower earnings limit for National Insurance contributions (£123 per week from April 2023) they are not eligible to be paid Statutory Sick Pay during sickness absence.

Income Tax

4 common pitfalls of employing staff and how to avoid them - Income Tax and National Insurance There is a threshold for payment of income tax which is also set in April each year, called the ‘personal allowance’ and it is unlikely that apprentices will be paid above this amount. Again, the personal allowance is set in April each year and is from April 2023 is £242 per week, £1,048 per month or £12,570 per year. Find out more here.

National Insurance

There is a threshold for payment of National Insurance contributions set in April each year called the ‘lower earnings limit’ and from April 2023 – 2024 this is £123 per week, £533 per month, £6,396 per year. Find out more here.

Workplace Pensions

Pensions legislation applies to certain employees who earn over £192 per week. You must enrol and make an employer’s contribution for all staff who:

are aged between 22 and the State Pension age
earn at least £10,000 a year
normally work in the UK (this includes people who are based in the UK but travel abroad for work)

4 common pitfalls of employing staff and how to avoid them - Workplace Pension From April 2023 the minimum employer contribution is 3% so if you have an employee who is aged 23 or over and on the National Living Wage of £10.42 for a 5.5-day/44-hour week (£458.48 gross per week) the employer pension contribution would be £13.75 per week. So it’s not usually the cost of pension contributions that puts employers off, it’s just a lack of time and understanding about how to go about setting one up. It’s actually quite simple! So sit down with a coffee and check this out – it will only take you 15 minutes to get to grips with the basics.

Read Caroline Carter Recruitment’s explanation of Workplace Pensions here.

Here’s a guide to working out if you should have a workplace pension scheme – click here.

You can work out the contribution on any salary using the Money Advice Service Workplace Pension Contribution calculator here.

And for a quick and easy guide to setting up a workplace pension scheme here.

So for relatively little effort and very little cost, you can give your employees a workplace pension. This is a really attractive additional benefit which could make all the difference when you’re trying to recruit a good groom.

I hope you’ve found this information useful and interesting – stay safe, stay on the right side of the law and watch out for those blind ditches!!

There’s lots of helpful guidance on employing staff available on the Government website – www.gov.uk – and I’ve included links to some of these. If you think you may be breaking any of this guidance you should take advice from your qualified legal advisor or accountant.

If in doubt, take advice from a suitably qualified professional such as your solicitor or accountant.

Employers

Jobseekers

Employment Law

Top Jobs!

JL117858 Lincolnshire – Trainee and/or Home Groom/Rider (optional), Eventing

Team WoodheadAvery Eventing

Live in Live out Lincolnshire, UK

Due to one of our girls heading off travelling we are on the lookout for someone with a great work ethic, to join our fun and friendly team. Working with professional GB & NZ event riders. We typically have around 20 horses in work, this mainly being eventers with a few pure dressage and showjumpers alongside. We would be open to the idea of either taking on a working pupil who is less experience but eager to learn the ropes or a groom who has some experience in the industry/ with competition horses but still has lots to learn from our current experienced team. The role includes all basic horse management and care. There is opportunity to go to some shows if this is something that interests you or equally we can offer a more home-based role with or without riding. Beautiful shared accommodation in a 3 bedroom cottage offsite.

JL117823 South Buckinghamshire – Centre Manager and Instructor. Riding for the Disabled Association

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live out Buckinghamshire, UK

Job Description UPDATE – Sweet, 2 bed log cabin accommodation now available! Two bedrooms, shower room, open plan living, veranda, and garden space *8 am – 4.30 pm daily *5 days a week *Salary IRO £28-£32K neg according to experience and qualifications *Fabulous career opportunity *Partner welcomed Thriving UK charity promoting the aims of Riding for the Disabled by providing people with the opportunity to ride and have equine interaction to benefit their health and well-being is now looking for a Centre Manager with a recognised teaching qualification and relevant practical experience, to take overall responsibility. The Centre has helped many disabled children and adults over the years and some have gone on to become National and Olympic Champions in the sport of Para-Dressage, (including Sophie Christensen, Natasha Baker, and Julie Payne). Their volunteers and instructors help children and adults with a range of disabilities get a sense of independence as well as exercise and rehabilitation. The yard has 11/12 staff and numerous keen volunteers. The coaches, in partnership with physiotherapists and volunteers, work with riders who have a variety of disabilities. These include learning difficulties, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, paraplegia, rheumatoid arthritis, Down’s syndrome, epilepsy, deafness, visual impairment, and limb amputation. For some, who cannot ride just being around horses has a well-being benefit. Reporting directly to the Board of Trustees you will have good interpersonal skills, and previous management experience (people & yard including administrative abilities.) You will be someone who leads by example whilst working harmoniously with and for others. Reporting directly to the Board of Trustees, you will be able to demonstrate maturity and diplomacy as well as embrace full accountability for the day-to-day running of the centre. Ideally, you will be passionate about working in this type of environment and understand both the human and equine challenges faced as well as the fun on offer! This purpose-built centre means riding and horse-based activities can be offered throughout the year. Riders can join groups or have private tuition. Facilities include a 20 x 40 indoor arena and a 20 x 60 outdoor arena. Also a classroom for lessons on horse management. Your remit will include, but is not limited to the following: General Responsibilities, Estate and horse management Responsibilities, Administrative Responsibilities: General Responsibilities: To carry out the duties of the position in accordance with the Group’s Equal Opportunities and Health and Safety policies, disciplinary legislation and statutory regulations To ensure compliance with all Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection standing orders, confidentiality agreements, financial regulations, management policies and procedures. To be an ambassador for the Group, and represent the interests of the Group, at external events. To represent the interests of the Group in all of its dealings with riders, potential riders, volunteers, Group supporters, Group visitors and suppliers. To actively support fundraising and revenue generation in collaboration with the Hon Treasurer or other Trustees To carry out any other duties within the level of responsibility as may be determined from time to time by the Board

JL117735 Hampshire, New Forest – Carriage Driving Groom/Rider (optional) for Private/Family Yard

John Finnegan

Live in Hampshire, UK

Job Description We looking for help on our Private yard and Four in hand driving team. We drive for pleasure and attend the odd show and Carriage Driving club meetings. We are ideally looking for someone self-motivated who’s happy help with a bit of our day to day and life, and hope that someone working with us will enjoy joining us in what we do. Our main yard is at home in Nursling; 9 stables in an American Barn, with a modern self contained flat on our Carriage Driving yard in the New Forest National Park Single accommodation is provided in a self contained flat or small cottage.

JL103889 Leicestershire – Home Groom required for Olympic Eventing Yard

Hoy Enterprises Ltd

Live in Live out Leicestershire, UK

Job Description We are looking for a Home / Yard Groom to join our team of amazing people from around the world. We are a boutique operation – a competition yard with international sport horses at the top level. We are here to win medals – not to sell horses. Attention to detail, good communication skills, willigness to listen, learn and adapt and a ‘High Performance Mindset’ are important to us. Experience is secondary – skills can be aquired, it is the attitude that counts. Minimum Requirements We are looking for candidates who have worked in the environment of a professional yard before – no matter what discipline – and who understand the requirements and demands of a top sporthorse yard. Accommodation details Shared Accomodation is available on Site – individual bedroom/bathroom. Candidates who wish to live out are also welcome. Benefits Free Accomodation with all bills paid for (Council Tax, Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) for Candidates who wish to live on site.

JL115499 GONE TO CONTRACT Herefordshire – Full-time Live-In Groom/Rider required for Private Estate

Private Estate, Herefordshire

Live in Herefordshire, UK

Job Description English family relocating from Scotland are looking for a live-in groom to start June 2024. This is a full-time position with the requirement to work ad hoc Saturdays or Sundays as needed. The applicant will be in sole-charge of two perfectly behaved cobs and three (pretty perfectly) behaved shetland ponies. The family are currently looking to acquire three further horses / ponies to add to their team. The private estate is a working farm with excellent equine facilities. There is an outdoor arena with show jumps, miles of off-road hacking and plans for an extensive cross country course. This is a very happy and family focussed home, with young children, dogs and other livestock. HGV 7.5 ton license preferable, but for the right candidate the family would sponsor the required training and qualifications. CVs and references will be required. Minimum Requirements All yard duties must be performed to a high standard. Applicant must be a sensitive and confident rider and happy to work through any schooling or behavioural issues. Due to the size of the horses, the family require a lightweight groom, ideally one who is able to exercise and school small stocky ponies. Candidate must be energetic, a team player, with good social skills and the ability to work harmoniously alongside other staff. The family are also looking for a positive, happy groom who would also really enjoy riding with (and teaching where needed) the younger members of the family. A DBS certificate will be required. Accommodation details Idyllic one-bedroom flat adjoined to the main house, overlooking the farm and parkland. This flat is in excellent condition and there is a strong expectation that this standard of accommodation will be maintained by the successful applicant. – Council tax paid for – Water and heating paid for (T&Cs apply) – All other utilities to be covered by the applicant Benefits For the right candidate, this position offers: – The opportunity to bring with them their own horse – The opportunity to bring with them a maximum of two well behaved small pets (indoor cats only) – The opportunity to use the family horse box for personal use (when not in use by the family) Pension as standard

JL117625 TEMPORARY ROLE . Belgium, Nr Brussels – Dedicated Groom (s)/Rider (optional).

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Belgium

*Salary IRO £41K pa depending on experience (pro rate) *Accommodation available * non-rider ok * Dog welcomed. Temporary Groom is required for an ambitious Dressage Rider with a solid performance record and every intention of getting to the next Olympics/World Games whilst we look for their permanent Groom. You will be looking after their competition horses and a few horses in for training . Total at the moment 5. With a love of the horses and regard for their welfare mentally and physically. All the usual duties of managing the horses at home to a very high standard i.e. mucking out, tacking up, putting horses in the field and walker, hand walking, lunging, coordinating the various tasks such as feed order, farrier, vet, physio visits etc. is required. LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WHO CAN CURRENTLY WORK IN BELGIUM WITHOUT IMMIGRATION RESTRICTIONS. Pls Call Caroline and The Grooms List team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruiment.com

JL117624 Belgium, Nr Brussels – Dedicated Groom (s)/Rider (optional)/couple considered.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Belgium

*Dog considered *Salary IRO £41K pa depending on experience *End of year performance bonuses possible *Accommodation available * Riding (and training) available if required or non-rider ok * Dog welcomed. Ambitious Dressage Rider with a solid performance record and every intention of getting to the next Olympics/World Games is looking for a Groom to look after their competition horses and a few horses in for training to be sold. Total at any one time 6 horses. You must be a true professional with a love of the horses and regard for their welfare mentally and physically. All the usual duties of managing the horses at home to a very high standard i.e. mucking out, tacking up, putting horses in the field and walker, hand walking, lunging, coordinating the various tasks such as feed order, farrier, vet, physio visits etc. Some competition outings are possible with the possibility of Grooming at the Olympics and the next World Games or just being a stay-at-home Groom also considered. Some experience handling younger horses ideal PT workers/ Freelancers available to cover/holidays/busy times. Riding capabilities are ideal but not essential/Training possible. Lorry license is ideal but not essential. LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WHO CAN CURRENTLY WORK IN BELGIUM WITHOUT IMMIGRATION RESTRICTIONS Pls Call Caroline and The Grooms List team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruiment.com

JL114893 Scottish Borders – HEAD GROOM WANTED – Family Yard

Hendersyde Park Farm

Live in Scotland, UK

Job Description Head groom wanted for small family yard in the Scottish Borders. Excellent facilities and accommodation on private estate. Minimum Requirements We are looking for a sole charge groom for our small family yard as our current groom – who has been with us for seven years – is moving back to Europe. Care involves fitness work and turn out for hunting and care/exercise of two older horses. The job would suit someone older, looking for a step back from competition grooming, or someone younger who would like to bring one/two horses and make use of the excellent training facilities. We require someone with attention to detail, a cheerful disposition and good riding skills who is self motivated and capable of sole care and management of the yard. Accommodation details The job comes with a lovely, fully equipped, two bedroom flat on site. Video available on request. Benefits Competitive wage to the right candidate.

JL117562 Switzerland – Immediate start: Home and Show Groom

Optimum Horses

Live in Switzerland

Job Description An international sport- and dealing-stable in Dielsdorf, Switzerland, is looking for a friendly, experienced and reliable person taking care to high level dressage and showjumping horses. Duties include grooming, tacking, therapies (massage rugs, ice, etc.), bandaging, bathing, trimming, clipping, plaiting, show preparation, show grooming, braiding, first aid, lunging, laundry, organizing of tack room, feeding and cleaning stalls. Accommodation details Very nice accommodation with own kitchen and bathroom. Benefits Competitive salary, social insurances, accident insurance, working contract and working permit for Switzerland

JL115908 East Sussex, Uckfield – Competition Rider/Instructor

Hurstwood Farm Equestrian Centre

Live in Live out East Sussex, UK

Job Description A fantastic opportunity for a competent competition rider: We currently have 4 competition horses for showjumping and eventing, one of these recently won Bicton 1m championships and has qualifications. 1 is an established showjumper competes at 1.20-1.30 with potential to go further and two youngsters with excellent bloodlines for eventing they have just started their careers and have been out showjumping so far. All expenses, entries etc paid for by the owner. We have 2 horseboxes one 7.5 and one 3.5 so must be able to drive. Teach on our Racewood eventing simulator, lots of fun helps riders to learn to ride so no bobbling about on horses backs! Can also do advanced dressage and jump pretty decent 1.20 courses xc and sj. Interactive screen and it generates feedback and produces a print out for rider position, balance, leg pressure and contact. BHS approved riding school with a lovely mix of horses and ponies but we are small only 7 riding school horses with regular clients. Nice easy stables – new Cheval Liberte, fully matted and drinkers. 5.5 days, 8am- 5pm Must drive and have own car. Salary negotiable for right person £24k – £30k, together with extra income for teaching on or off the simulator. Minimum Requirements Experience competing and coaching qualifications. High welfare standards. Accommodation details Sole accommodation if required. Self contained studio apartment or chalet type accommodation. Benefits Fantastic facilities and location 80 acre cross country course Latest technology horse simulator – can jump a course of 1.20m sj and xc New big airy barn type stables Pension 28 days Holiday

JL117224 Surrey – Groom/Rider (optional) required for professional Show Jumping Yard

SF Equine Ltd – Steven Franks

Live in Live out Surrey, UK

Rider / Groom A fantastic opportunity to work on a professional show jumping yard in the Surrey hills. We are seeking a very valued member who takes pride in their work and prioritises the care of the horses. To include all normal stable duties such as mucking out, lunging, tacking up, loading the horse walker, field turnout, clipping and managing day to day running of the yard. Option to ride if competent with fit, young competition horses. Good basic flatwork skills needed and experience within this field. This could be the ideal opportunity for someone to base and train with there own horses, alongside riding and grooming. We travel to national and International shows including Spanish tours. Must be confident handling fit, competition horses and stallions and to be able to take sole charge at times. We are looking for someone enthusiastic, responsible, reliable and hardworking to join our fun and friendly team. Must be willing to turn out to high standards. Clipping and plaiting would be an advantage but could be taught. An opportunity to join a fantastic team of horses and people. Purpose built modern indoor yard with great facilities. 5 day week. 7.30am to 5.15 with breaks and cake. Attractive salary with bonuses for loyalty and progression. This can be discussed further upon assessment of applicants CV. Flexible days off and paid holiday entitlement. Can be more home based if the candidate prefers as our other members of staff are flexible. Sole accommodation in a modern park lodge with private decking and views if required. Applicant can also live out if local. Previous staff members recommend and generally have stayed with us for many years. Minimum Requirements Experience with competition horses a bonus HGV is a bonus but not essential Accommodation details Residential Lodge Benefits Possibility of own horses for the right candidate Great opportunity to work with a variety of horses for a successful show jumping rider.

JL111960 Surrey – Head Groom for professional Show Jumping yard

SF Equine Ltd – Steven Franks

Live in Live out Surrey, UK

Head Groom / Yard manager A fantastic opportunity to work on a professional show jumping yard in the Surrey hills. We are seeking a very valued member who takes pride in their work and prioritises the care of the horses. To include all normal stable duties such as mucking out, lunging, tacking up, loading the horse walker, field turnout, clipping and managing day to day running of the yard. Option to ride if competent with fit, competition horses. We travel to national and International shows including Spanish tours. Must be confident handling fit, competition horses and stallions and to be able to take sole charge at times. We are looking for someone enthusiastic, responsible, reliable and hardworking to join our fun and friendly team. Must be willing to turn out to high standards. Clipping and plaiting would be an advantage but could be taught. An opportunity to join a fantastic team of horses and people. Purpose built modern indoor yard with great facilities. 5 day week. 7.30am to 5.15 with breaks and cake. Attractive salary with bonuses for loyalty and progression. This can be discussed further upon assessment of applicants CV. Flexible days off and paid holiday entitlement. Can be more home based if the candidate prefers as our other members of staff are flexible. Sole accommodation in a modern park lodge with private decking and views if required. Applicant can also live out if local. Previous staff members recommend and generally have stayed with us for many years. Minimum Requirements Experience with competition horses a bonus HGV is a bonus but not essential Accommodation details Residential Lodge Benefits Possibility of own horses for the right candidate Great opportunity to work with a variety of horses for a successful show jumping rider.

JL117203 Cheshire, Northwich – Part Time, Live Out Groom and Instructor Required for Family Yard

Feldy Green Cottage

Live out Cheshire, UK

Job Description We looking for a a part time groom to look after our horse and two ponies and to also help our two children (8 year old boy and 3 year old girl) with there riding skills. Minimum Requirements Experience in teaching young children to ride. Drivers licence would be preferable to support with pony club events. Self starting Accommodation details Stable and access to an arena for horse is available. Benefits To Be Agreed, but terms will be favourable

JL110577 The Midlands – HGV Competition Groom/Rider (optional) Required. Young Rider Show Jumping yard

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out West Midlands, UK

CONFIDENTIALITY ASSURED *Salary IRO £40k totally negotiable depending on experience plus accommodation *Sponsorship available to suitably qualified non UK citizens *Partner, own horse and pets welcomed (but this is a role with lots of travelling home and internationally) Show Jumping Competition Groom required for a vacancy with a very ambitious and competitive family. Must be an experienced Show Groom in the UK and Internationally with an established referenceable record. Rider is a bonus but certainly not essential. Experienced driving 26t+ lorries and ideally articulated is key. 18 quality jumping horses and homebred/other young stock destined for a career in SJ/jumping all kept in top accommodation to the highest standards. Nice, flexible accommodation Great team environment with a young, energetic, motivated and progressive team. Top-class facilities Fairly flexible on the number of days worked, can work around anything between 5 and 6 but obviously will be straight through when away at shows You will be well looked after and treated as the professional you have worked hard to become in this very inclusive environment. Must have experience with handling stallions. Please call Caroline & the Team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL108865 Germany – Calling all those with an adventurous spirit who would like to turbocharge their CVs?

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Germany

If you have an EU or German passport or the necessary immigration status plus an adventurous spirit and would like to turbocharge your CV – we would like you to get in touch soonest *Salary £2047.71 per month/£24,572.52 pa annum/£472.54 pw (Euros equivalent) *Food/accommodation and utilities small charge *Must have an EU or German passport *Dog considered *Short-term contract positions (6-9 months available), as well as long-term jobs, are available *This employer is happy to consider junior and senior, experienced or less experienced This is a unique opportunity to work in a world-class performance horse yard/ auction site/ sales/youngstock /sales and competition yards and on the same employer’s Stud & AI laboratory (during the Stud season) . The Stud role during the season has 2 key elements: to look after broodmares and their foals. You would also be involved in vet checks and insemination, youngstock handling, stable management, feeding, health care, farrier, etc Grooms/Stud staff interested in working in their world-leading AI laboratory This position requires someone super meticulous and organised to fill and pack the orders for mares to be put in foal to their world-class stallions via AI you don´t need any horse or lab experience at all. Enthusiasm and dedication to work alongside the best horses, riders, and horse people. This opportunity would be GREAT FUN and a second-to-none experience which would enhance your career anywhere you choose at home and abroad. Outside of the season you may well work with young horses/competition horses/auction bound horses etc etc whatever you r preference vs the yards requirements at the time. All up for discussion. This really does offer a rare insight into world-class horses, world-class facilities, and a truly remarkable experience for any Groom or Stud Person seriously interested in getting to the top of their game. There are also considerable opportunities for advancement and promotion possibilities if you wish to remain in Germany. Please note: Medical aid – by law both employer and employee have to pay 50% Statutory sick pay – the employer pays for the first 6 weeks of medical insurance, after the 6 weeks they pay around 60-70% 3 meals per day will be provided when working on site, (one of which is a warm cooked meal), and the employee pays 163€ per month contribution All employment/immigration /legal administration – The employer will assist with this but there will be a joint responsibility between the employee and Employer. The agency, Caroline carter Recruitment Ltd. in its capacity as an introductory and not an employment agency, does not get involved with this apart from in terms of communication between employee and employer if requested in writing/email by the employee or employer Covid-19 – The employee must have had the 1st and 2nd doses but it is not mandatory to have had the booster. This will be at the employee’s discretion but the employer retains the right to restrict duties without it. Please call Caroline & the Team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL117026 Lanarkshire – Head/Home Groom with Riding, International Dressage Yard

Robyn Smith Dressage

Live in Live out Lanarkshire

Job Description This is a very specific role where it is important to find the right person as our yard is our home, our horses are our pride and joy and it is a position of great responsibility. We are looking for a full time, home groom to report directly to the owners and take sole charge/ care as required. We run a small, family yard with very high standards and attention to detail. Our horses range from broodmares and foals to our international Grand Prix dressage stallion as well as horses at various stages in between. We also take in a limited number of horses for training throughout the year. All usual yard duties and responsibilities are required in the running of the yard day to day as well as the specific needs of performance horses and broodmares and foals. Occasional help away at single day shows may be required but this role is primarily focussed on the health and happiness of all our horses at home, ensuring all of their needs are met. We pride ourselves in giving our horses the best care possible with no detail being too big or small and would like to find someone with the same ethos. Given the sole charge nature of this role, the ideal candidate will be someone who is happy working off their own motivation and does not rely on the “buzz’ of a large team around them day to day. Live in/ Live out as required. Whilst care will be the primary role the ability to assist with hacking, lunging and basic exercise is required particularly for when we are away at shows so a competent rider used to fit competition horses is preferred. Training as to how we do things and to refine skills will of course be provided. Please get in touch for a fully detailed job specification.

JL116974 Hertfordshire – Live in or out Home and Competition Groom/Exercise Rider, (optional). Eventing.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Hertfordshire, UK

*IRO £26K-£30K pa * beautiful, on site Accommodation available * Opportunity to travel to competitions *Small dog possible This is a lovely position to work alongside an owner/2* Event Rider and other team members at home but sole charge at competitions. The horses kept include 2x Novice horses, 2 x 2** event horses & 2 retirees. This position would suit someone with experience at the level and in the discipline. with initiative, enthusiasm, a GSOH OR a decent home Groom who would like to transition to become a competition Groom and is willing and able to learn the ropes. You should be able to: Work in a team and or take sole charge at home Sole charge at competitions (UK venues) Perform all aspects of stable management Provide a first-class standard of care, with a high level of attention to detail Turn out to a high standard Hack out, fit competition horses. Call Caroline and The Grooms List team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruiment.com

JL116968 East Sussex – Groom/Rider (optional) for an International Dressage Rider.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out East Sussex, UK

* Remuneration negotiable IRO £25K pa (no accommodation charges and no bills) *Horse considered *Dog considered * Partner considered Lovely, professional Dressage Team is looking for a Groom/Rider (optional) for an International Dressage Rider. The soonest start required. This is a sole charge home and sometimes away position (competition Groom skills required) in a quiet yard with a small team so you must be someone who is happy with that and doesn’t need a large ‘buzzy’ team around them. You must be capable of sole charge/have good turnout skills /reliability and commitment/trustworthiness. Riding is offered if capable and training can be provided to develop also. The Rider competes mostly in the UK so you would be required to attend shows and perform competition Groom duties so prior experience in this area is preferable. The furnished accommodation is beautiful, a ground floor flat barn conversion with a garden. (Photos available for suitable candidates). These employers are proud members of the EEA and pride themselves on being at the forefront of good employment practices. Please call Caroline and The Grooms List team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruiment.com

JL116773 Hertfordshire, Rickmansworth – Live Out Groom/Rider (optional) required for mixed discipline Livery Yard

Rosehall Farm

Live out Hertfordshire, UK

Job Description All usual daily yard duties. Minimum Requirements Looking for reliable team player that is hard working, enjoys working as part of a team. Some experience required but happy to train the right person. Must have good communication skills and happy to deal with livery clients. Accommodation details N/A Benefits Friendly, happy yard environment, training given, work as part of a fantastic team that has lots of experience and energy. Good rates of pay.

JL103713 Germany. Warmblood sport horses – Experienced or less experienced Stud and or AI laboratory Staff required.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Germany

Add considerable experience to your CV – why not consider as a short-term contract position (6-9 months available) as well as long-term jobs. If you have an EU or German passport, an adventurous spirit and would like to show what you are capable of or add to your CV, then this could be for you! *Salary £2047.71 per month/£24,572.52 pa annum/£472.54 pw (Euros equivalent) *Food/accommodation and utilities small charge * Must have an EU or German passport *Dog considered. One of the most professional performance horse yards in the world is looking to add to its team with two key Stud Roles to look after broodmares and their foals. You would also be involved in vet checks and inseminations, youngstock handling, stable management, feeding, health care, farrier, etc Grooms/Stud staff interested in working in their world-leading AI laboratory This position requires someone super meticulous and organised to fill and pack the orders for mares to be put in foal to their world-class stallions via AI you don´t need any horse or lab experience at all. This employer is happy to consider junior and senior, experienced or less experienced. Enthusiasm and dedication to work alongside the best horses, riders, and horsepeople. This opportunity would be GREAT FUN and a second-to-none experience which would enhance your career anywhere you chose in the future both at home and abroad. A rare insight into world-class horses, world-class facilities, and a truly remarkable experience for any Groom or Stud Person seriously interested in getting to the top of their game. There are also considerable opportunities for advancement and promotion possibilities if you wish to remain in Germany. Please note: Medical aid – by law both employer and employee have to pay 50% Statutory sick pay – the employer pays for the first 6 weeks of medical insurance, after the 6 weeks they pay around 60-70% 3 meals per day will be provided when working on site, (one of which is a warm cooked meal), the employee pays 163€ per month contribution All employment/immigration /legal administration – The employer will assist with this but there will be a joint responsibility between the employee and Employer. The agency, Caroline carter Recruitment Ltd. in its capacity as an introductory and not an employment agency, does not get involved with this apart from in terms of communication between employee and employer if requested in writing/email by the employee or employer Covid-19 – The employee must have had the 1st and 2nd doses but it is not mandatory to have had the booster. This will be at the employee’s discretion but the employer retains the right to restrict duties without it. Please call Caroline on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL116385 Cambridgeshire – Permanent, experienced team Groom/Rider for established and traditional Hunting yard.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Cambridgeshire, UK

Cambridgeshire – Permanent, experienced team Groom/Rider for established and traditional Hunting. *IRO £22K+accommodation (pay own electricity) *warm, cosy 1-bed apartment *Dog welcomed *Lots of riding on big, fit hunters *Great for experienced Groom or a chance to get some proper Hunt Yard experience on your CV! Lovely position available on a well-established, traditional family hunt yard within a beautiful estate. Fun, professional team renowned for being great at what they do. You will work hard but be treated well and have a very rewarding job! The position involves all grooming duties to a good standard. Lots of riding is available but you must be a strong confident good jockey, (horses ranging from 15.2-18.2HH and are fit and well). You will be taught to clip, plait (sew plaits) etc but if you already possess these skills even better. 5.5 days a week (Sunday off and half a day in the week) Hours are 6.30- 12. 30 and then just 1.5 hours in the afternoon (1.00 pm). Great facilities/menage/lunge pen/500 acres/excellent hacking. Call Caroline & the Team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL116009 Gloucestershire, between Cirencester and Cheltenham – Live Out, Sole Charge Groom/Rider for Amateur Rider (Eventing, Dressage)

Withington Manor

Live out Gloucestershire, UK

Job Description Self-employed groom sought 3-5 hours a day, generally 5 days a week, to care for and manage three competition horses in a private yard between Cirencester and Cheltenham, Gloucestershire (GL54) We are seeking an enthusiastic, reliable, efficient, trustworthy person. The person needs to be capable of sole charge, with high standards and a good level of equine management, including fitness, and riding skills for hacking and schooling. Ability to clip, plait, and turn out to show/event standard is required. The role is for someone who is a good communicator, open minded to occasional equine complementary therapy, and adaptable to usual competition flexibility, with a sense of humour. Whilst there are usually people around, initiative and responsibility is required The person will be responsible for organising and booking the diary, for lessons, farrier, vaccinations, chiropractor, dentist, training and event schedules, alongside rider support. Minimum Requirements Average hours are 3 – 5 hours a day, minimum of 2, but need to be flexible and event days will be longer hours. There is an opportunity of additional work, alongside this role, in a large attached livery yard. Self employment required. This is a lovely and cheerful environment, with lovely horses, who are very much cherished, excellent facilities and outstanding hacking. Possibility of stabling your own horse on site. ***Start date is flexible – can start any time between now and June 2024, please contact and discuss***

JL113920 Hampshire, Nr Hook – Rider/Groom/Instructor (no formal qualifications required). Family Yard.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Hampshire, UK

*Salary £35,000 PA depending on experience and qualifications.*5 day week *Horse welcomed *Discretionary, generous end of year bonus *Overtime available *Very interesting role We have placed several staff with these employers over the years and most are still in situ with the feedback in all respects extremely positive. ‘Lovely family, a great place to work, nice people, more than fair remuneration Exciting Role on a small yard of 10 rare breed/schoolmaster horses for a really lovely private HNW family. The family reside in the UK seasonally and now needs an accomplished, calm, confident, self-starter with a passion for high standards of horse care and VIP client interactions to join the team. The daily role is inclusive of completing all yard jobs to a high standard, and exercising the horses both under saddle and in the carriage (opportunity to learn to carriage drive if not currently in your skillset). The horses need to be kept in a manner that keeps the horses suitably trained for their intended purpose and with a high level of turnout and yard. In the season the role is similar to a competition groom role, exciting and dynamic with different requests to fulfil on the main premises inclusive of pony riding, carriage driving, trekking, photoshoots, events and more! The ideal candidate would possess their HGV licence, but at minimum, the candidate will need to be confident driving a 3.5t and towing with a manual car and trailer with a willingness to obtain a HGV with the employer’s sponsorship longer-term. The candidate will need to be flexible regarding hours during the “season” the family are in residence as some events run into the evenings, this time is well remunerated and those that go above and beyond to make the residency period run smoothly are well rewarded with a very generous discretionary bonus at the end of the season. Daily working location is based in Hook, Hampshire, main estate based near Windsor, during the “season” you will be required to work from either/both locations. Could be live-in or live-out position but a relocation package is offered whereby the employer provides allowance for accommodation for 4 months, (giving time to look for own accommodation in the area). Amazing private facilities with space for 20 horses but family have <10 : International sized arena, own gallops and show jumps. Great hacking. Call Caroline and The Grooms List team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruiment.com

4 Common pitfalls of employing staff

and how to avoid them

Keeping employing staff simple

by Linda Hudson

Pitfall 1:

Miscalculating wages

Apprentices

Pitfall 2:

Knowing when and how to legally charge employees for their accommodation

Pitfall 3:

Neglecting or getting in a muddle over paid holidays

Pitfall 4:

Overlooking the finer details – sick pay, income tax, national insurance and pensions

Employers

Jobseekers

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