CODE OF CONDUCT – THE WINDSOR PRINCIPLES

At Windsor Park Equestrian Club, we strive to create a W.I.N.D.S.O.R. environment: Welcoming, Inclusive, Nurturing, Dedicated, Safe, Organised, and Respectful.

This Code of Conduct applies to all participants, including riders, drivers, trainers, officials, volunteers, visitors.

 

W.I.N.D.S.O.R. Principles

W – Welcoming:
We are committed to fostering a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. All individuals, regardless of their role, background, or experience, should feel valued and respected. Kindness and courtesy are the cornerstones of our community.

I – Inclusivity:
We promote diversity by supporting all members and participants equally. Harassment, discrimination, or bullying of any kind is strictly prohibited. Everyone should feel empowered to participate and contribute.

N – Nurturing:
Our dedication to the care of horses and facilities is unwavering. We adhere to The Charter of the Horse and uphold the principles of British Carriagedriving by advancing equine welfare and educating drivers, officials, and the public. We also support British Dressage’s Equine Welfare Action Plan, which emphasises governance, training, and sport development to ensure that the health and well-being of horses remain paramount. Together, we celebrate the harmonious relationship between horse and rider/driver.

D – Dedicated:
We are committed to continuous learning and the safety and well-being of everyone at the club. Anyone attending a WPEC hosted event are expected to respect club rules and follow instructions from officials, stewards, trainers, and volunteers.

S – Safety First:
Safety is a priority for both people and horses. Members must use appropriate equipment, adhere to established protocols, and avoid reckless behaviours that could endanger themselves or others.

O – Organised:
We strive to ensure all activities run smoothly by maintaining schedules, keeping facilities in top condition, and collaborating with event organisers, officials, stewards, and volunteers.

R – Respectful:
We value good sportsmanship, humility in victory, and grace in defeat. All participants are expected to work positively with one another and maintain respect for all members of the club.

 

Key Expectations for All Members

  1. Respect for Horses: Members must use humane practices, avoid overworking horses, and prioritise their physical and mental well-being.
  2. Adherence to Rules: Compliance with all club policies, including those concerning safety, attire, and etiquette, is mandatory.
  3. Shared Spaces: Members must act courteously in riding, driving, and training areas. Disruptions should be minimised, and all participants should understand the right to use shared spaces respectfully.
  4. Professionalism: All interactions, whether as participants, volunteers, or officials, should be supportive and constructive. Advocate the club’s commitment to upholding the responsibilities of the Social License to Operate.

 

  1. Conflict Resolution: Disputes should be addressed calmly, with violations reported promptly to club management for resolution.

 

Role-Specific Guidelines

For Riders:

  1. Follow club rules for schedules, arena use, and park etiquette.
  2. Wear appropriate riding gear, including helmets and footwear, as required by safety policies.
  3. Always consider the physical and mental well-being of your horse. Avoid overworking or using harsh techniques.
  4. Share riding spaces respectfully, avoiding disruptive behaviours such as cutting off other riders or creating excessive noise.
  5. Be open to feedback from trainers and officials to improve skills and ensure safe practices.

For Carriage Drivers:

  1. Treat all horses with respect, ensuring they are fit, healthy, and well-prepared for driving.
  2. Operate carriages responsibly, adhering to designated driving routes and safety protocols.
  3. Inspect equipment before use and use properly adjusted harnesses and tack.
  4. Respect fellow drivers, riders, and spectators, and offer assistance during emergencies or equipment issues.
  1. Wear appropriate driving gear, including helmets and footwear, as required by safety policies. Hard hats must be worn at all times when on a carriage. Back/body protectors are mandatory on the marathon course and for anyone under 18 at all times when on a carriage.

 

For Trainers and Coaches:

  1. Maintain professionalism and provide constructive feedback with respect and encouragement.
  2. Prioritise safety in lessons and communicate clear instructions. Address unsafe behaviours promptly.
  3. Promote ethical and humane training techniques based on trust and understanding.
  4. Foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all skill levels and backgrounds.

For Stewards/Volunteers:

  1. Maintain impartiality and enforce competition rules fairly and consistently.
  2. Monitor the safety of riders, drivers, and horses during events, taking action to prevent unsafe practices.
  3. Communicate decisions respectfully and collaborate with event organisers to ensure smooth operations.
  4. Provide guidance to less experienced competitors to create a welcoming environment.
  1. Maintain a cooperative and positive attitude to enhance the activities and enjoyment for everyone

 

For Competition Officials and Event Organisers:

  1. Be punctual, dependable, and work collaboratively with stewards, volunteers, competitors and each other.
  2. Offer friendly and helpful assistance to participants. Avoid favouritism or interference.
  3. Maintain orderly and safe competition spaces, adhering to instructions from organisers.
  4. Handle equipment, and property with care.
  1. Maintain a cooperative and positive attitude to enhance the activities and enjoyment for everyone

 

For Visitors:

  1. Follow posted signs and instructions from officials, avoiding interference with training or competitions.
  2. Supervise children at all times to maintain safety.
  3. Obtain permission before photographing people or horses. Do not feed or touch horses without explicit consent.

 

Prohibited Behaviours

The following actions are strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary measures, including removal from the club:

  • Harassment, bullying, or discrimination of any kind.
  • Unsafe practices that put people or horses at risk.
  • Abuse, neglect, or mistreatment of animals.
  • Vandalism, theft, or misuse of club property.
  • Behaviours that disrupt the harmony or peace of the club.
  • Uncooperative or disruptive behaviour that hinders the activities or enjoyment of others.
  • Reckless driving or riding
  • Ignoring officials, volunteers, stewards, organisers or others in power requests or instructions or policies of the club/ the Crown Estate.

 

 

Reporting Violations

Members are encouraged to report any violations of this Code of Conduct to club committee. Reports will be handled with confidentiality and addressed in a fair and timely manner.

By participating in Windsor Park Equestrian Club activities, all members, competitors and their support teams, visitors, officials, volunteers, stewards, and helpers agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. Together, we can create a thriving, safe, and welcoming environment for everyone.