1. Protecting the vulnerable

In equestrian sport, as in many others, children, young people, and adults with physical, mental or social vulnerabilities may be at risk of harm, abuse or harassment. The South African Equestrian Federation (SAEF) emphasises that everyone involved “should be safe and treated with respect,” while recognising that “some individuals may cross the line and display harassing or abusive behaviour, with devastating consequences.” A robust Safeguarding Policy is in place to protect the welfare of all participants.

2. Ensuring the sport environment is safe, inclusive and positive

Safeguarding isn’t only about addressing wrongdoing, it’s about creating an environment where athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers feel respected, supported and free from fear. Equestrian sport should provide athletes with the space to find joy, dedication, and achievement through the bond between horse and rider, focusing on performance and growth without concern for their well-being.

3. Protecting the reputation and integrity of the sport

No sport wants to be associated with abuse, harassment or systemic harm. As seen globally, misconduct can erode public trust, discourage participation, deter sponsors and expose organisations to legal and financial risk. By proactively embedding safeguarding, the SAEF demonstrates its commitment to welfare and protects the integrity of equestrian sport in South Africa.

4. Enabling sustainable participation and development

When young riders, volunteers and officials feel safe and respected, they’re more likely to stay in the sport, develop their skills, and become long-term contributors (coaches, officials, mentors). This continuity is especially important in equestrian disciplines, which require investments of time, mentorship and relationships. A safe culture supports retention, development pipelines and the long‐term health of the sport.

5. Legal & compliance obligations

In South Africa, sports organisations are increasingly required to implement safeguarding policies, personnel screening, training and reporting mechanisms. Federations are expected to appoint Designated Safeguarding Officers and vet coaches and volunteers. In equestrian sport, non-compliance can result in legal risk, loss of funding or events, and reputational harm.

6. Risk reduction and prevention of harm

Safeguarding is about more than responding when things go wrong; it’s about preventing harm. By prioritising prevention, equestrian sport in South Africa reduces the risk of abuse, harassment, and exploitation, as well as the human cost that follows.

Why it’s relevant in equestrian sport

• The sport often involves close relationships (rider-coach, rider-horse, stable personnel) that may cross boundaries.
• There can be substantial travel, camps, private coaching sessions or remote/rural venues, potentially increasing vulnerability of participants.
• The mix of amateur, grassroots, and high-performance structures means varying levels of oversight.
• The sport often involves minors and vulnerable adults; with horses, equipment, and stables involved, physical risk is already present — emotional/psychological safety is critical.
• In South Africa, inclusion, access, and equality are important — safeguarding supports inclusivity, mitigates the risks of discrimination, harassment, or unequal treatment.

The consequences of failing to safeguard

• Harm to vulnerable individuals (physical, sexual, emotional, psychological.
• Loss of trust by parents, participants, sponsors, and the public, reducing participation and funding.
• Legal consequences: organisations may be liable if they fail their duty of care.
• Damage to the sport’s reputation and the federation’s standing, harming the capacity to host events, attract talent, or secure sponsorships.
• Derailment of development pathways: If coaches/officials are compromised or participants leave due to unsafe environments, the sport’s future is weakened.

Safeguarding in equestrian sport in South Africa is not optional. It’s fundamental to ensuring the sport is safe, inclusive, reputable and sustainable. For the SAEF and all its provincial/club members, embedding strong safeguarding practices means protecting individuals, fulfilling rights-based obligations, maintaining trust, enabling growth, and preventing harm.

People are reminded that Horse Welfare and Safeguarding are two different matters, and Horse Welfare matters cannot be reported to the National Safeguarding Officer.

If you would like to become a Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO), please send an email to nationalsafeguarding@saef.org.za