Child Welfare & Safeguarding

Horse and lovely equestrian girl

In this section there is a variety of information into the protection and safeguarding of youths in our sports. If the information you require is not here, or if you have any queries in relation to Safeguarding, do not hesitate to contact our National Children’s Officer/Designated Safeguarding Children’s Officer Paul Hayes on:

Email: safeguarding@horsesportireland.ie   Tel: (045) 854 524

Or your Affiliate National Children’s Officer

Click Here for Affiliate National Children’s Officers List 2023

Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) is committed to creating and maintaining the safest environment possible for all young people and vulnerable adults who wish to participate in HSI activities. Alternative contacts within HSI for Safeguarding include Patricia Kennedy (HSI Vetting Liaison Person), 045 854 516 and Triona Connors 045 854 519. The HSI Safeguarding email is monitored by both Paul Hayes and Patricia Kennedy.

We are fully committed to safeguarding the well being of all athletes. Every person should at all times, show respect and understanding for participants’ rights, safety, welfare and conduct themselves in a way that reflects the principles of the organisation and the guidelines contained in our Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Youths and Vulnerable Persons in Our Sport.

On March 3rd 2015, Horse Sport Ireland officially adopted its own Code,  Horse Sport Ireland Code of Ethics & Good Practice for Youths & Vulnerable Adults In Our Sport. Our Code is written in accordance with guidelines outlined in the Sport Ireland and Sport Northern Ireland joint Code of Ethics manual.

Safeguarding Documents and Policies

– Template for Equestrian Sporting Bodies! 

 – Template for Equestrian Sporting Bodies! 

 – Template for Equestrian Sporting Bodies! 

 – Template for Equestrian Sporting Bodies! 

 – Template for Equestrian Sporting Bodies!

– Link to NI Direct:Government Services!

HSI Safeguarding Links

Below are links to other relevant ares of Child Welfare and Safeguarding within the Safeguarding Hub of Horse Sport Ireland. Information includes vetting for both ROI and NI residents, Safeguarding training (Formerly Child Protection) etc.