Road safety for horses and riders is to be discussed by MPs in Westminster Hall next Wednesday (14 January) after months of campaigning for improved conditions.
The debate aims to raise awareness of near-misses, serious injuries and fatalities, and to explore practical steps to improve safety for equestrians.
The debate is backed by the British Horse Society (BHS), the British Horseracing Authority, and road safety campaign Project EDWARD. It follows the Horse and Rider Road Safety Presentation Bill, which seeks to strengthen protections for equestrians, and MP Lee Dillon’s Early Day Motion, calling for urgent action.
“Horses and riders remain some of the most vulnerable road users, and incidents on rural roads can have life-changing consequences,” said Lee Dillon MP, who secured the debate.
“This debate is a chance for MPs to come together, raise awareness, and push for practical, common-sense measures to protect riders and horses. It is not about blaming drivers; it’s about making our roads safer for everyone.”
Alan Hiscox, Director of Safety at the BHS, said the Westminster debate was a significant step for equestrian safety.
“We’re incredibly grateful for Lee Dillon’s support and are thrilled that this has progressed from the awareness ride we held last May,” he told Your Horse.
“With this debate, along with the second reading of the Road Traffic (Horse and Rider Safety) Bill, we can amplify riders’ voices and raise awareness of the serious injuries and fatalities our horses face every day. But we can’t do this without the help of the equestrian community. That’s why we’re asking equestrians to write to their local MP, urging them to attend this debate.
“The more MPs hear from us, the greater the chance that we’ll see promising change towards protecting horses, riders and carriage drivers. Let’s keep fighting together.”
For BHS advice on how to get in touch with your MP and to download a template letter or email, visit their website.
The news of the debate comes alongside the Government’s updated Road Safety Strategy, which was released yesterday (7 January), and has recognised riders as vulnerable road users, marking another step forwards in highlighting the need for safer shared roads.
Lead image: Your Horse Library/Lucy Merrell
