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Wages in the Equine Industry

Wages in the Equine Industry

Paying it safe – what you need to know about wages in the equine industry

by Kelly Wallace Horne

March is that time of year that we approach the end of one Tax Year and the start of the next, and the National Minimum Wage and Living Wage increases. Of course, this also reflects wages in the equine industry.

The New National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage 2018

This is important for everyone in the equine industry – employers and employees alike. Equestrianism is a notoriously low-pay industry in terms of hourly salary, and salaries are frequently, if not always, topped up with extras, bonuses and tidbits. But in reality, how lawful are we in doing this without the advice and guidance of accountants and tax specialists? And what are the consequences of getting it wrong?

The UK Government has strict laws regarding the minimum sum of money any individual can receive in return for work done and it can be confusing at least, a minefield at worst, when remunerating staff not just fairly, but legally too.  In this article we give answers to basic questions for both employers and employees regarding the National Minimum Wage and Living Wage and to highlight common misconceptions within the equine industry regarding wages, remuneration packages and the law.

The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only. We kindly remind readers that it is the responsibility of the individual to ensure that the information they are working to is correct and appropriate for their specific circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional in times of doubt.

 

NMW and NLW increases from 1st April 2024

2024 sees changes and increases to the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage, with the National Living Wage increasing from £10.42 per hour to £11.44 per hour. Since 2022, the NMW for Apprentices is aligned with the NMW for 16-17 year olds, where both bands must receive a minimum of £6.40 per hour. Additionally, the age bands change again, this time to include all workers aged 21 years and over into the National Living Wage.

 

What is the National Minimum Wage and Living Wage?

Wages in the Equine Industry - What is the new NMW

The National Minimum Wage (NMW) and the National Living Wage (NLW) is the minimum wage per hour a worker is entitled to in the United Kingdom. These rates are set out into age bands, from Apprentices through to experienced adults. The wages are reviewed yearly by the government and are advised by the independent body Low Pay Commission (LPC). These rates are not guidelines, they are the law, and there are few exceptions to employees who are entitled to these hourly rates.

 

 

What are the new National Minimum Wage and Living Wage age bands and hourly rates?

The new National Minimum Wage and Living Wage rates are as follows:

April 2024 – March 2025

Level/Age Min. Hourly Rate
Apprentice £6.40
Under 18 £6.40
18-20 £8.60
21 and over £11.42

 

From what date does the new National Minimum Wage and Living Wage apply?

The new National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates come into force from the 1st April 2024. All employees must be paid at least the new, increased wage rate regardless of how long they have been in their job. Ensure you take into account the changes to the age bands for the National Living Wage. Find out more here: https://thegroomslist.co.uk/the-national-living-wage-increase-in-2024/

 

 

Who is entitled to receive the National Minimum Wage and Living Wage?

Wages in the Equine Industry - Its all about the moneyTo qualify, a worker in the United Kingdom must be at least:

  • school leaving age (last Friday in June of the school year they turn 16) to get the National Minimum Wage.
  • aged 21 or older to get the National Living Wage – the minimum wage will still apply for workers aged 20 and under.

Contracts for payments below the minimum wage are not legally binding, the worker is still entitled to the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage regardless of any existing employment contract.

Workers are also entitled to the correct minimum wage if they’re:

  • part-time
  • “casual labourers”, for example, someone hired for one day
  • agency workers
  • apprentices
  • trainees, and workers on probation
  • disabled workers
  • agricultural workers
  • foreign workers

Freelance Grooms offering services to horse owners are not employed workers but service providers, therefore do not qualify for the National Minimum Wage and Living Wage. Freelance Grooms will set their own hourly rate.

 

Employees with accommodation – do I still need to pay/receive the National Minimum Wage and Living Wage?

Wages in the Equine Industry - AccommodationYes, but an employer is entitled to deduct a set daily/weekly amount from the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates. We have covered in some detail the law regarding the National Minimum Wage and jobs with accommodation here. Employer or employee, if it applies to you, do have a read.

 

 

Employees on an excellent salary package with plenty of extras – do I still need to pay/receive the National Minimum Wage and Living Wage on top?

The National Minimum Wage and Living Wage from April 2018 - Provide a payslipYes. The Government is quite clear on what can be deducted from the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage – only the accommodation offset rate can be deducted from the National Minimum Wage and Living Wage. Bills, extras (wifi, Sky/Satellite/Cable TV, cleaning etc), livery fees/cost of a horse, training/lessons can be charged to the employee, but not deducted from the National Minimum Wage. The employee must receive at least the National Minimum Wage and pay any charges to the employer in a separate transaction. A “payment in kind” arrangement is acceptable as long as it does not take a wage below the National Minimum Wage and, either way, any extras thrown into a salary package must still be declared to HMRC.

 

 

What happens if I don’t pay/receive the National Minimum Wage and Living Wage?

The Government takes the National Minumum Wage and National Living Wage increasingly seriously, so much so that in 2017-2018 they named and shamed almost 180 employers in the UK for underpaying their employees. The employers were also fined £1.3m collectively, on top of collectively paying out £1.1m in backpay for 9200 workers. The Government are on it, and it really isn’t worth risking the consequences!

In the eyes of the law, the National Minimum Wage is not only the employer’s responsibility – an employee mustn’t accept less than the National Minimum Wage for their age. To work out if you are receiving the correct wage for your age you can use this handy National Minimum Wage and Living Wage calculator from the Government website: National Minimum Wage and Living Wage Calculator.

 

 

National Minimum Wage and Living Wage – Good Practices

 

1. Review, negotiate and agree on a wage or salary package – regularly!

For both employers and employees, the subject of paying and receiving money can be an uncomfortable one to raise, but it really is important that you take this bull by the horns and keep yourself safely within the law. Get over any reluctance to broach the matter, and don’t be afraid to negotiate a fair and legal wage, or salary package, not only at the start of employment but regularly throughout.

Age: Over time, employers must be aware of their employee’s age and make sure their wage is increased to reflect the appropriate age band. Employees mustn’t be afraid to remind an employer that their birthday is approaching. It’s not about being cheeky or greedy, it’s about being lawful.

Changes in circumstances: Remember to review and adjust wages at times of change. If an employee moves from staff accommodation to live out locally it is imperative that their wage is reviewed and adjusted regarding the removal of any accommodation offset rate applied. This could be easy to forget and would lead to a breach of National Minimum Wage and Living Wage laws.

 

2. Play it safe with payments in kind

If you are an employer or employee engaging in like-for-like arrangements, for example, the employee receives riding lessons, livery, the provision of a car or use of the lorry as part of a salary package, scrutinise this carefully – HRMC certainly would. It is perfectly acceptable to offer free products and services as part of a salary package, providing the employee receives the National Minimum Wage or Living Wage in addition to this, and additional benefits and bonuses are reported to HRMC appropriately.

 

3. Be careful when making/accepting deductions from a wage

There are certain circumstances when deductions take a wage below the National Minimum Wage and Living Wage, and you must know when it is legal and when it isn’t. For example, livery for a staff horse cannot be deducted from the National Minimum Wage and Living Wage, and it is illegal to do so. If an employee must pay a fee for an extra such as this, the employee must be paid at least the National Minimum Wage and Living Wage and be charged separately for their horse. Learn more about making deductions here.

 

The National Minimum Wage and Living Wage from April 2018 - Pay by the hour

4. Ensure hours worked are accurately remunerated

To be honest, in the equestrian industry it’s a common mistake to work out a groom’s salary against standard office hours which, as any seasoned equestrian will know, is highly unlikely to be the case! An employer can choose to pay for a lunch hour or not and, either way, this needs to be clearly stated in the contract of employment. If an employee’s working day is 7am-8.30am, 9am-1pm, 2pm-5.30pm, for any number of days in a week, they must be paid for each of those hours. Paying someone who has worked 9 hours or more for 6 days a week the National Minimum Wage for a 9am-5pm Monday-Friday does not count as a legal wage. Also, any overtime must be paid hourly on top of the standard daily salary. Be realistic when paying/receiving the National Minimum Wage and Living Wage. It’s the minimum hourly rate, not a weekly or monthly rate and it’s not a guideline but the law! As an employee, you want to receive your dues – that goes without saying and is in no way unreasonable. As an employer, you not only want to find, recruit and keep your ideal groom, you NEED to ensure you stay within the law regarding these minimum wages.

 

A note on salary packages: Employees may need to declare to HMRC free products or services they receive as part of their salary package, including livery for a horse, the provision of a car and even accommodation. Employers may need to declare payments in the form of such additional extras. Why? Because the right amount of Income Tax and National Insurance must be paid for what the employee receives! Failing to do this can be interpreted as tax evasion and will land you in hot water! More information for employers can be found here. More information for employees can be found here.

 

The National Minimum Wage and Living Wage from April 2018 - Tax and National Insurance5. Never pay or accept “cash in hand”, even when self-employed

Many of us will remember when the Rt Hon Ed Balls came under fire for suggesting people should get a written receipt for all transactions, even small gardening jobs, even if it was just for £10 to cut a hedge because it was the “right thing to do”. As unpopular this suggestion may have been, he’s not entirely wrong, and this is certainly the case regarding permanent and temporary employment. Employers must provide employees with a payslip, before or on payday, and it must show the employees earnings before and after any deductions, and the amount of any deductions that may change each payday, e.g. Income Tax and National Insurance. The payslip can be paper or electronic (e.g. via email).

If a groom is working on a self-employed basis the groom must provide their “boss” with invoices, and both parties need to keep copies of them. The groom must declare their salary and bonuses in their income tax self-assessment return. The National Minimum Wage and Living Wage rates still apply.

If a groom works on a Freelance basis, invoices must still be provided and kept but in this case, the Freelance Groom will set the hourly rate of pay and by law, the National Minimum Wage and Living Wage do not apply.

 

6. Know the law and keep up with changes in legislation

It’s boring, often difficult to absorb and understand, but it is imperative that you know your legal requirements and rights regarding the National Minimum Wage and Living Wage, and these will change fairly regularly – at least once a year. Here at Caroline Carter Recruitment, we will try to keep you updated via our Advice, Articles, and Blogs, but we will always recommend you consult an appropriate advisory body with questions and problems.

 

7. Make use of free resources

ACAS offers invaluable services to both employers and employees, with free online tools alongside their helpline. Visit the ACAS website.

The Government website contains a wealth of information regarding all things employment. Navigate your way around using the onscreen links on each page you visit. Visit the Government website.

In addition to these, we will try to keep you informed of laws and legislation with a slant on the equestrian industry. You can see all of our articles here.

 

The National Minimum Wage and Living Wage from April 2018 - Review and adjust salaries

Money Matters

It is something the team at Caroline Carter Recruitment will say again and again – don’t be afraid to discuss wages/salary packages/money. Caroline has written an interesting article for both employers and employees about broaching and discussing the subject of salary here, and it’s well worth having a read of it. After all, grooms work for a living, and employers want to keep good grooms! Taking a job, or taking a new employee into your fold is a big move and it only works if it not just starts out right but remains right, and that needs regular review and adjustment. Let’s make this April the perfect time to attend to this.

 

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The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only. It is the responsibility of the individual to ensure that the information they are working to is correct and appropriate for their specific circumstances.

© Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd and The Grooms List, 2024. Unauthorised use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd and www.thegroomslist.co.uk with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

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Top Jobs!

*Single or family person welcomed (including children.) *Dog welcomed but not on the yard* *5 day week * IRO £25K -£35Kpa +/- plus accommodation neg. . The employer is a semi-professional carriage driver and his wife has a strong equestrian background. Carriage driving experience is helpful but not essential.  Strong horsemanship skills on the ground and under saddle along with yard management skills are, however, essential. Groundwork and long-reining ability also are highly desirable. The horses are ridden (hacked and schooled to a good level under saddle). Candidates should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the nature of horses and possess all the usual skills including the ability to turn a horse out and there is an opportunity to learn to drive. There are 7 horses which are Dutch harness horses 16HH-16.2HH (2x mares and 5 geldings), these are typically WB Dutch dressage type horses. The employer is constantly back and forth to the yard/abroad where he runs a thriving business so a track record of RELIABILITY is key. Please note due to protracted absences of the employer, this position has a contracted 3-month notice period. Accommodation options are available. Very well appointed 2 beds/2 baths flat on-site and a lovely house in the village close by is available meantime. Please note due to protracted absences of the employer, this position has a contracted 3-month notice period. Good yards close by if you have a horses (s) Small family estate. Indoor and outdoor ménages, good hacking. Great facilities -walker/washdown etc. Please call Caroline & the Team on 0203 006 5730 or email caroline@carolinecarterrecruitment.com
Job Description Looking for a dedicated and motivated team player to join our busy yard in a role as a competition groom with plenty of travelling. Will suit someone that wants to be closely involved with the competition horses and help achieve exciting goals with them. A full time, live in or live out position which includes all day to day yard duties and working with the horses at home and away at shows. Must clip, plait and turnout to a high standard. Will need to be happy driving a 3.5t horsebox and HGV license is a bonus. A love of the horses and high standards and attention to detail are the most important. Role will include competition grooming for myself as well as taking clients to shows, horses to the treadmill, vets etc. We have a string of horses from youngsters up to 4* eventers and also compete BS regularly including Hickstead throughout the summer. The right person will need to be organised, cheerful and hopefully slightly OCD. Must work well in a team and be good with clients as well as being happy working on own initiative and motivation. Someone who also likes and is happy to pitch in with young children is also a huge bonus. Current team of staff have all been here between one and five years. Littleton has exceptional facilities and is one big family (even if it is a slightly bonkers one at times). Hopefully someone wants to come and join us for the ride! Ideally looking for someone from the start of April however this is flexible as right person is paramount. Previous experience in this specific role not essential but must have good yard work experience and ideally some competition grooming so far. Riding can be part of the job but not compulsory. Competitive package with a contract including pension, paid holiday etc
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.
Job Description Full Time Groom required to look after a happy family yard near Newmarket, doing a bit of everything! We are training up for easy to get to goals and shows; working hunter; local Shows, and Pony Club activities. We mostly hack out and school, and in the Summer there is Beach Riding, Woodland Riding, The applicant MUST be a confident rider, enthusiastic and reliable. Duties and responsibilities: We are looking for an experienced Head Groom capable of managing 16.2 hunters to a high standard together with managing family horses and ponies. All duties of a professional groom in sole charge will be expected, including, but not limited to: • Building up and maintaining fitness levels • Supervising a fearless 11 year old • Care of Tack, Tack Room and Stables • Paddock maintenance • Basic knowledge of equine first aid – the ability to spot and deal with minor wounds etc • HGV licence would be a significant bonus & Trailer licence • Supervision of part time / temporary groom(s) Core working hours will be between 0800 and 1700, however the hours will vary according to the needs of the Estate and the requirements of the role with the need to start earlier and finish later when necessary. You will generally be required to be available between Monday to Sunday. Where possible you will be entitled to two days off in a seven day period at reasonable times to be agreed with the Estate. You may have to work such additional hours as are necessary for the proper performance of your duties which will include weekends and bank holidays for which you will receive time off in lieu as agreed with the Estate. This is a lovely opportunity for the right applicant to work for a friendly and relaxed family on a yard set in stunning parkland.  
Job Description We are looking for a Stable Hand / Groom to join our 5* Equestrian Centre. Top facilities on a newly developed Centre. 2 to 5 Days a week, minimum Saturday and Sunday cover, 7:45am start with a lunch break. Yard finishes about 6pm. Candidate must work well as a team, competent in the stable yard, friendly, self motivated, honest & kind with our horses. Fantastic opportunity to work with Mrs Sam van den Berg, International Level 2 Instructor! Excellent package, dependant on experience & ability! We look forward to meeting the new future member of out Team! Minimum Requirements Experienced Groom, able to work efficiently, at high standard. Punctual, friendly, team worker! Must be local or have reliable transport, as bus service is not always reliable   Accommodation details No accommodation available   Benefits Working on a 5* establishment, top wage package. £150 Signing Bonus after successful completion of 3 months probation period.    
Job Description We’re in search of a dedicated full-time team member to join the close-knit Magna Horses family. As a valued member, you’ll play an important role in our passion-driven, family-owned business focused on caring and producing top quality horses. Ideal candidates will: – Prioritise reliability and be a trustworthy team member. – Have experience in handling young horses and stallions – Thrive in both team environments and be able to work on their own – Complete all basic yard duties to a high standard, including mucking out, hay net filling, and turning out, with additional opportunities for the right person. – Most importantly have a love and understanding for competition-ready horses of varying ages. We invite people with their own horses, offering a competitive salary, excellent facilities, and potential additional benefits. Minimum Requirements Be comfortable around horses and like them! We can offer training as long as you are happy to undertake general yard duties.   Accommodation details Regrettably, accommodation is not currently provided.   Benefits We invite people with their own horses, offering a competitive salary, excellent facilities, and potential additional benefits. Also, we will include free flat work/dressage or in-hand lessons with GB U25 Grand Prix rider You can ride your horse during day light horses (probably lunchtime) – yard duties can be done after dark, riding your horse can’t! Located in picturesque Wiltshire(SP3), with fabulous off road hacking.  
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***  
Job Description RIDING VACANCY AVAILABLE ! Due to the increasing number of young stock we have coming through, we are now recruiting for another rider to join the team and work alongside myself, Hannah Morrow & Catherine Robinson. This is a fantastic opportunity for a keen young rider to come and base themselves at Aston-le-Walls and learn from an established and successful event team. The chosen applicant will have the option of bringing their own horse, benefiting from world class facilities and plenty of training. Alongside all the day to day yard work, the job involves helping with the riding of both the young event horses and the commercial horses for sale with the potential to compete, dependent on experience. We are looking for : – Someone ambitious and hard working with an established eventing record, preferably up to Intermediate / 3* level & experience producing young horses. – Someone with a passion for eventing and an understanding of the correct groundwork alongside having natural feel. – An empathetic rider with solid foundations on the flat and a soft approach to a fence.
Job Description We are a private livery yard consisting of 36 acres, featuring 15 stables, 25x60m manège, lunge pen, and cross-country practice course. The yard has easy access to the East Anglian Farm Rides off-road hacks on over 55 farms in Essex. The yard requires a new head groom that is willing to live onsite. The person will be responsible for the day to day needs of the horses in livery and maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the yard, stables and equipment. The suitable applicant must be at BHS level 3 (or have other equivalent training/experience), work meticulously, expeditiously and to a high standard, is comfortable working independently as well as providing supervision to junior grooms if needed, and be capable of monitoring the health and behaviour of the horses, recognizing any changes that need reporting to the horse owner. The position does not require riding but there is the possibility of occasional ridden work. Similarly, grooming, clipping and performance of other tasks may be possible. Salary: £25-30’000 per year, to be discussed Hours: 40 hours a week, Monday – Friday. Possibility to offer services to the liveries at weekends for supplementary income. Start Date April/May 2024 Minimum Requirements BHS level 3 or equivalent/equivalent experience, bandaging, first aid, lunging, mane trim/pull and clipping advantageous. Comfortable working alone and also able to provide support to less experienced grooms.   Accommodation details 1 bedroom apartment (unfurnished) available at £450 a month (price includes electricity, water) on a separate tenancy agreement   Benefits Possibility to bring own horse  
Job Description home/ show groom, opportunity to do shows UK and internationally if they would like to Minimum Requirements must have knowledge with horses and be confident with young horses   Accommodation details shared accommodation,  private ensuit bedroom and bathroom in the accommodation building there is a newly fitted out kitchen, games room, gym, laundry room garden area with bbq and seating   Benefits great team already there opportunity for international shows lovely accommodation well looked after and respected with in the team  
Job Description flat rider/groom for competition yard, mainly 4-7 year olds no breaking or backing young ones required Minimum Requirements must be able to ride confidently and have good flat work skills lunging and long reining   Accommodation details shared accommodation, ensuit private bedroom and bathrooms within the accomadion there is a new kitchen, laundry room, games rooms and gym   Benefits great fun team opportunity to flat ride at shows uk and internationally
Job Description A fun and friendly yard with high professional standards, now expanding and in need of an Assistant Manager. Looking for a full time person to join the team at an eventing focused yard on a beautiful private estate near Charlbury, Oxfordshire. Largely in support of a lovely young Event Rider aiming for Europeans later this year and hoping to complete her first 4*. Looking for someone with the ability to oversee staff and the running of the yard in the Yard Managers absence, whilst also happy to muck in as part of the team. A HGV licence is essential for getting out and about, travelling to training and competitions. Confidence handling and riding big fit competition horses is key, with the successful candidate undertaking hacking, fast work and schooling if capable. There is always something new and different happening on the estate to provide an ever changing and exciting environment.   Very competitive package for the right person including own accommodation, 5 day week and salary ranging from £27-30k dependent on experience.   Minimum Requirements HGV licence – travel to training and competitions Ability to manage staff and the running of the yard in the Yard Managers absence Eventing/competition experience Confidence handling big fit competition horses This is a riding role – hacking, fastwork, lunging, potentially schooling Sense of humour!   Accommodation details Lovely own Cotswold cottage provided, with council tax and water also covered. Partners welcome, dog a possibility.   Benefits Accommodation Salary dependent on experience – £27k-£30k  
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 14 horses and teach lessons not only on actual horses but also on our eventing 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. 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   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  
STABLE HAND/HOME GROOM VACATION COVER MAY 2024 EXPERIENCE IN HANDLING HORSES FROM 3 to 23 YRS (NO STALLIONS!) HORSE WALKER AND TURN OUT SERVICES MUCKING OUT FEEDING   Modern Appartment on premises with floor heating, rain shower, WIFI, TV
Searching for a groom to join a growing competition yard with top-class facilities. Confidence and ability to handle fit competition horses from young stock to 4* is a must; with a general love of horses and the sport. Previous experience on a professional yard preferred, but not a necessity. General day-to-day yard duties, lunging, riding etc. HGV a bonus. Applicants must also have/be: • Happy • Enthusiastic • Can-do attitude • A team player • Reliable • Good communication A good salary to reflect level of experience. 5 days a week. Fantastic on-site accommodation available in a 4 bed house. Well behaved dog welcome. Own horse considered.  
*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
*5 day week * IRO £25K pa +/- plus accommodation neg. 🙂 This vacancy has arisen due to internal promotion. We have placed staff in these roles previously and the feedback is always excellent 🙂 This lovely employer is a semi-professional carriage driver and he and his wife have a strong equestrian background. Good horsemanship skills on the ground with yard & horse management skills being a priority for the role . Candidates should possess all the usual skills, including the ability to turn a horse out Riding optional – the horses are ridden by their owners (hacked and schooled to a good level under saddle). An interest in carriage driving experience is helpful but not essential and there is an opportunity to learn to drive if you might be interested.  Outings to competitions are shared between the yard manager and this position. You would mostly be travelling to outings in the UK. There are 7 horses which are Dutch harness horses 16HH-16.2HH (2x mares and 5 geldings), these are typically WB Dutch dressage type horses. The employer is constantly back and forth to the yard/abroad where he runs a thriving business but is looking to be permanently based in the UK permanently in 5/6 years’ time. Integrity, self-reliance initiative and self-starters are a must for this role. Small family estate. Indoor and outdoor ménages, good hacking. Great facilities -walker/washdown etc. No room for a horse but lots of good yards close by. Please call Caroline & the Team on 0203 006 5730 or email caroline@carolinecarterrecruitment.com
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  
We are now looking for an experienced competent rider to join our team. This Warmblood Stud is the home of Stallions and Broodmares. We have the pleasure of owning and producing beautiful and versatile warmblood horses.  Our bloodlines include some of the top in the  Country ;- Concorde, Kannan, Voltaire, Zirocco Blue, Cardento, Kashmir V. We are based in West Wales near Tregaron in a stunning rural location with purpose built equine facilities with an Equine Therapy and Spa onsite. Set in the midst of the idyllic Cambrian Mountains we are graced with beautiful outriding and our horses benefit with hacking out as part of their daily routines.  These quality Warmbloods are or have competed in show jumping competition in this country and abroad. This full time, live in or out role. We need a competent rider to join the team. Most importantly to work with our team,  getting the best from our horses. This will include general yard duties working as part of the team producing young stock and competing our stallions.   The role is 5 days per week and flexibility if we go out to shows at the week days and weekends. We are a mixed yard competition horses (stallions), youngstock, broodmares and general riding horses. We have some very well bred, exciting youngsters for the future. We are a very busy yard this could be a hugely rewarding role for the right person. Accommodation details – Live in is available for one and own horse considered.  
*Salary of £22,360 -£25K pa neg and prorate. depending on experience plus beautiful Cotswold stone cottage accommodation (without charges). *Fab CV opportunity *Single accommodation *World-class establishment *Well behaved dog considered Groom with some performance horse experience is required to work on a TEMPORARY basis whilst we find a permanent member of staff for an established and highly motivated team who work to a very high standard in an international dressage yard. Competent Grooms from any discipline considered. You must be a team player and as this is a non-riding position (some hacking, maybe,  if you are a particularly balanced and capable rider). It would suit someone who enjoys the Dressage environment and who wants to work with the best team of people & horses in the best of facilities at home. Please call Caroline & Team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com
*Salary of £22,360 -£25K pa neg. depending on experience plus beautiful Cotswold stone cottage accommodation (without charges). *Fab career/CV opportunity *Single accommodation *World-class establishment *Well behaved dog considered Groom with some performance horse experience required to work within an established and highly motivated team to a very high standard in an international dressage yard. Competent Grooms from any discipline considered. You must be a team player and as this is a non-riding position (some hacking, maybe,  if you are a particularly balanced and capable rider). It would suit someone who enjoys the Dressage environment and who wants to work with the best team of people & horses in the best of facilities at home. This is a great training ground for those established in their career or ambitious individuals wanting to build a career towards yard management and /or competition grooming in the future. Please call Caroline & Team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com
​*Stunning Cotswold location *IRO £400-£450 +accomm and no bills *5 day week * dog considered* Our client events her horses at all levels (BE90 – 4*)and has some fabulous advanced horses as well as some “up and coming” youngsters. This role is suitable for an experienced Groom who enjoys the competitive environment but is also happy when mostly home grooming. Relevant experience ideal including yard/stable/performance horse management. Youngstock experience a bonus as a few young horses brought in from time to time to bring on. Must be able to turn out to a good basic level. Must be passionate about horses and their care. … Please call Caroline & the Team  on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com  
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  
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
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

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Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd
The Stables
Fildyke Road
Meppershall
Bedfordshire
SG17 5LU

info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com
0203 006 5730 / 07747 686 118

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