FOR those within the wider racing public who do not know what Equuip is, Equuip is the education and training department of Horse Racing Ireland. Equuip provides information to those entering the industry, as well as education and training for those who are trying to progress within the sector.

It incorporates HRI’s people welfare department, which encompasses health and wellbeing services for those who require them, according to Stacey McDonnell. For anyone working within the industry, it is strongly advised to liaise with McDonnell if you are struggling in any way.

McDonnell alludes to the fact that she does not hail from a racing background as she has a background in nutrition. However, she impresses upon the interviewer how she has gained copious amounts of knowledge about the industry and appears to have found a passion to assist those trying to progress within the industry.

“I don’t come from the racing industry so I’ve had a lot of learnings in my two and a half years in Equuip,” says McDonnell.

“I witness the passion that people have for the industry and help to keep the industry going. On the other hand, I witness the challenges and needs of people working in it. I feel I can make a difference in this position as I am one step removed and not well known in the industry, people may feel more comfortable to reach out to me if needed.

“My passion comes from people within the industry, particularly my team, who are embedded in the industry. They embody the passion of the industry which I feel has rubbed off on me. My role here is to support and impart knowledge, which should help people to achieve their goals, knowing that I may contribute to a person’s life in a positive way. It is my motivator. It matters to me and is what keeps me going. “

This illustrates that those working in the racing industry can rely on McDonnell when needs be. For those wondering what the industry welfare co-ordinator does and how the role contributes positively to industry staff, McDonnell is very forthright in outlining her key duties and how they positively impact on stakeholders’ wellbeing and work-life balance.

She explains: “Some of my key roles are analysing and determining an overall wellbeing framework for the industry which incorporates ensuring a dedicated focus on developing and maintaining a culture where everyone has the best opportunity to experience good mental health and wellbeing. There is also an emphasis on developing and implementing policies and procedures, as well as appropriate supports for those experiencing poor mental health and life problems.

“We look to develop evidence-based online content regarding mental health, supporting the delivery of these mental health education sessions across the industry. There is a requirement to determine which mental health and wellbeing awareness programmes are effective and should be introduced. Acting as a point of contact and signposting people to any necessary supports is also part of the role.”

McDonnell believes the work of Equuip positively contributes to industry welfare standards among stakeholders, which has led to appropriate practices been undertaken in the areas of child safeguarding, critical incidents and dignity at work. She emphasises that no two days are the same in this line of work.

“Flexibility is key in this role,” she notes. “Unforeseen circumstances and impromptu tasks which can arise usually require immediate action take precedence.”

McDonnell is fully aware of the potential difficulties presented to employees in the industry.

“Workers face challenges ranging from physical demands to mental health pressures and I suppose there is no denying that the intensity of the job both physically and mentally is a big challenge for employees and employers,” she explains.

“When working with horses, they are a 365-day-a-year responsibility and, with that, work-life balance can be difficult. “

McDonnell is keen to focus on the positives of working in the sector, however, by outlining the resources available to industry employees.

“With Equuip, we have resources and supports which help with these issues for workers. We run education workshops throughout the year, including resilience which helps to equip people with the tools to cope with challenging circumstances. These workshops look at how to rebound and become a more resourceful person.

“We promote career progression through education and training with our career and progression coach Jeff Gomez. We have an education and training grant for people within the industry. We have the Industry Assistance programme, as well which is a free confidential and support service which is available 24-7, 365 days a year available to all industry workers and their family members. IAP provides counselling, legal information, bereavement support and medical information. There is also an app available called Wisdom which offers further resources. “

She adds: “Equip addresses financial instability, and then career uncertainty, among employees within the industry. We provide an education and training grant for upskilling or to pursue accredited courses. We provide free financial literacy course in conjunction with the Irish Injured Jockeys, which can be accessed on the Equuip website. We offer career development support where necessary.”

A strong relationship between Equuip and industry bodies benefits those availing of these services.

“Equuip promotes awareness of welfare issues among stakeholders in the racing community,” says McDonnell.

“We work very closely with our stakeholders and we have collaborated on numerous projects with them. For example, the free financial literacy course in conjunction with the Irish Injured jockeys, the industry induction course and jockey CPD in conjunction with the IHRB. We work closely with the Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Jennifer Pugh. Collaboration assists with highlighting and addressing any welfare issues in an efficient manner.”

There is understandably a continued push to keep standards high in racing’s equine welfare sector, and the same the same for people at the heart of the industry.

On the topic of initiatives that may come to fruition in the near future, McDonnell explains: “New policies are currently being evaluated. When they are passed and published, they will be disseminated throughout the industry. This should uphold industry welfare in a consistent approach right across the industry. Collaboration with all employees and stakeholders will take place.

“Social media will also highlight the industry’s own reputation and will assist in demonstrating the serious nature the industry takes when it comes to staff welfare which should ensure the wider public’s confidence in the industry as a whole.”

Should you wish to make contact with Stacey McDonnell, she can be reached at Smcdonnell@hri.ie, while the Industry Assistance helpline can be accessed at 1800 313 661.