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!

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.

JL117159 Kent – Full Time or Part-Time Groom for Family Yard

Valley Farm Throwley

Live in Live out Kent, UK

Job Description Full or part-time groom required for outstanding established family yard on Kent North Downs, maintained to very high standard. 3 horses, excellent facilities – including new indoor school, 60 x 20 outdoor arena, round pen and horse walker. Occasional dog sitting (2 charming labradors). Kitchen, restroom and bathroom facilities for groom on yard. Earliest start date 1 July 2024 but possibly earlier. Minimum Requirements Experience of usual groom’s duties and of handling sports horses. Accommodation details Excellent self-contained, live-in accommodation available on the farm, a few minutes walk from yard. Parking available. Benefits Accommodation. Possibility of own horse. One pet allowed. Excellent pay and working conditions. Farm is in AONB with footpath access from farm to outstanding surrounding countryside. Other help kept e.g. for ground and arena maintenance. M2 (10 minutes) and M20 (20 minutes) easily accessible. Easy access to Faversham and Ashford.

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

JL117166 Buckinghamshire – TEMPORARY Rider/Groom/Instructor (no formal qualifications required). Family Yard.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Buckinghamshire, UK

*Up to £175 per day plus accommodation and meals *5 day week *Overtime available *Own horse considered. Very interesting, temporary role available 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 whilst we build their long-term team, we need need a temporary person to bridge the gap, ideally soonest start – 5/5/24 maybe a little longer. You must be someone personable to interact with the family with good standards. The daily role is inclusive of completing all yard jobs to a high standard and exercising the horses under saddle ideally. The candidate will need to be flexible regarding hours as when the family are in residence, (some events run into the evenings), but this won’t be a boring gig and your time will be appreciated and well remunerated and those that go above and beyond to make the residency period run smoothly. Could be a live-in or live-out position but accommodation is available for the duration as is catering for mealtimes. 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

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

JL115908 East Sussex, Uckfield – Yard Manager/ Instructor

Hurstwood Farm Equestrian Centre

Live in Live out East Sussex, UK

Job Description We are looking for a capable yard manager who is also an experienced instructor with an interest in biomechanics to run the yard of 20 horses and teach lessons not only on actual horses but also on our Racewood eventing simulator. We are a BHS approved riding school and 5* Wealden Council approved centre. However we only have 7 horses so are fairly small as the welfare of our horses is paramount and no horse is ever overworked. Salary negotiable for right person £24k – £30k, together with extra income for teaching on or off the simulator. For the right candidate training and qualifications will be provided. The successful person must be organised, reliable and able to drive. We have a rider you will be working alongside and would be an advantage if you can drive a 3.5 ton or 7.5 ton horsebox. Must be capable of schooling competition horses at a high level. Possibility of competing subject to ability we have 4 competition horses, our main focus at the moment is showjumping and eventing. We have riding holidays, clinics and camps which you will get involved in with the other staff members. Minimum Requirements Coaching qualifications or experience 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

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.

JL117000 Belgium – Home Groom/Rider (optional) for International Dressage Yard

Haras de La Huissiere

Live in Belgium

Job Description We are going to rent a wing in a professional stable in the Brussels region of Belgium (Lasnes). We are looking for a groom for a professional dressage rider who competes internationally and who participated at the Tokyo Olympics. We are looking for the home groom for 6 horses. The job entails managing the horses at home, mucking our the stables, tacking up the horses, putting the horses in the field and walker, hand walking them, lunging the horses, coordinating the various tasks such as feed order, farrier, vet, physio visits etc…. Lorry license is a plus but not absolutely necessary. We have 2 lorries – a large one and a small one. So some lorry cleaning or organizing may be involved. A flat is supplied at the yard. The groom needs to be able to work in EU – either as employee or as a consultant. We are looking for someone who wants to be a part of a dynamic, ambitious team who has the highest dreams to perform as well as possible including the participation at World Cups, 5* shows and even the Olympics. Minimum Requirements English or French speaker, live-in or out. Organized, reliable and a love and respect for horses. Accommodation details The job includes a flat in the yard/stable.

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 * 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 when at home but your role at other times, is that of the main competition Groom. 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

JL116878 West Sussex – Long term Yard Manager/Groom required for FAMILY YARD

Private

Live in West Sussex, UK

Job Description Wonderful position at a family yard with sole charge of our horses/ponies. We offer onsite accommodation and competitive pay/benefits The ideal candidate will be competent, organised and flexible We’re looking for someone who will take pride in keeping the yard clean and tidy and to look after the horses as if they are their own. Flexibility within the role is a must – as the days can really vary! And we would ideally like to find someone who is looking for a long term role. All normal yard duties daily – we usually have 3 horses + 2 ponies. One weekend day at least. 5.5days/week. WE CANNOT ACCOMMODATE OWN HORSE CURRENTLY Must have driving licence. Can offer HGV training opportunity Experience working with children and ponies (and a good sense of humour!) required We offer a competitive package to the right person and very good working conditions Please only apply if you have the appropriate VISA/paperwork to live and work in the UK long term Please get in touch to find out more. Minimum Requirements Must have references and experience Driving licence required Accommodation details 2 bed sole use static home (very modern only a few years old and in great condition) Benefits Competitive salary, paid holiday and pension scheme

JL116803 Hertfordshire – Full Time Competition Groom for Show Jumping Yard

Astwick Bury Farm

Live in Hertfordshire, UK

Job Description Looking for a keen enthusiastic individual to come and join our small family run yard. Must be someone who is open and friendly with good communication skills, and capabale of taking overall responsibilty of the horses. Someone who is organised and methodical with their work. You will be working with top quality showjumpers from young horses through to Grand Prix. We have 12 horses max with 3 full time members of staff. Job will require all usual yard duties, tack cleaning, bandaging, tacking up, also lunging and dealing with fit competition horses including young horses and stallions. You will be required to go to all the shows both international and national. Fun friendly team to work with, alongside lovely horses. Live in position is available Please contact me for more information about the position. Pay is dependent on experience but we are on the books here so will include holiday pension etc Accommodation details Fully kitted out mobile home Benefits Potential for a horse

JL116740 Wiltshire – Competition Groom for Showjumping Yard

Baydon House Farm

Live in Live out Wiltshire, UK

Job Description We are looking for a Competition Groom to join our friendly and family-run Show Jumping yard near Marlborough This is a fantastic opportunity for a full-time, work-proud and driven individual. Option to live-in for the right person with a competitive salary dependent on experience. We are looking for a team player willing to get stuck in and enjoy the role. Fantastic indoor and outdoor facilities within family run yard in beautiful surroundings and friendly environment. Minimum Requirements Applicant must be competent around high class horses as well as youngsters. Accompanying competitor on national and international tours; turning out to a high standard when home and away. Ideal candidate will have HGV licence but not imperative. Accommodation details Potential to live-in for the right candidate. Newly finished flat on the farm complete with open plan kitchen, one double bedroom and en suite bathroom. Benefits Competitive salary dependent on experience.

JL116732 Scotland, East Lothian – Groom/Au Pair (optional riding) for Family Yard

Muirton

Live in Live out Scotland, UK

Job Description I am looking for someone to help me with our small private yard of ponies. My 3 daughters are all doing Working Hunter and a small bit of flat showing and I am now requiring help for shows and show preparation. There will be general yard duties during the week too, but I am happy to give the candidate the beginning of the week off if they have been at shows during the weekend. Minimum Requirements Must be able to plait and turn out to a high standard. Must be a happy disposition, and get on with the children. Drivers license required Non smokers Accommodation details In a mobile home on the farm Benefits A use of a car will be provided if candidate does not have one. We are 20 mins from the centre of Edinburgh with easy access to trains.

JL116520 Lincolnshire – Polo Groom/Rider required

Dart Bloodstock Polo Stud

Live in Live out Lincolnshire, UK

Job Description This role will involve: Taking sole responsibility for the running one of the yards. Looking after horses to a high standard Competent rider Knowledge of horse care Cleanliness is a must Going to tournaments on a day to day basis HGV license is a massive bonus but not essential Great fun job, with the opportunity to make great friends in a social sport. Accommodation details Accommodation can be provided.

JL115561 Scotland, West Lothian – Polo Groom/Rider required

Stewarton Polo Club

Live in Live out Scotland, UK

Job Description We require a Polo Groom/Rider to join our small team to help look after our lovely horses. The job involves plenty of riding, mucking out, keeping the horses looking good, travelling to tournaments, ensuring the yard is tidy and generally helping the club run smoothly. Our horses are all very easy but you must be a competent rider as you will be required to ride and lead. The job is varied and fun. No Polo experience required as full training given.

JL116484 Cheshire – Groom/Rider (optional) required, Showjumping

Williams Kennedy

Live in Live out Cheshire, UK

Job Description All yard duties, become part of existing team, tacking up, preparing horses for shows etc. Riding for the right applicant Minimum Requirements 3 years experience with horses Accommodation details On site Static Caravan Accommodation Benefits Training Provided Own Horse Possible Pets allowed Riding Opportunities

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

JL115499 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

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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