National Standards Listing

For each country we will attempt to state the regulatory framework in place. This is open to non-members as we hope, over time, to provide comprehensive listings per country. If you would like to add or amend to the listing below, please contact: office@hetifederation.org

National Standards for EAS

This resource is produced by members, for members with the intention of signposting the key areas of compliance that all EAS providers may need to consider. Please remember it has been provided in good faith but cannot be relied upon as a complete and accurate statement of the law, regulations or requirements for your area.

You MUST always make your own enquiries and judgements… and please update us with any suggestions, corrections or additional information. We hope this will be a useful and growing resource for the EAS sector worldwide.

Brazil (English)
  1. Is there any specific regulation for equine-assisted therapy (EAT) in Brazil?

Yes, equine-assisted therapy in Brazil is regulated by several documents and regulations.

  • Law No. 13.830/2019: This law officially recognizes equine-assisted therapy as a therapeutic method in Brazil. It establishes the requirements and basic guidelines for its application.
  • ANDE-BRASIL Statute: This internal document defines the standards and technical norms for equine-assisted therapy centers affiliated with the Brazilian Association of Equine-Assisted Therapy (ANDE-BRASIL).
  • Brasília Charter: This document reinforces the principles, methodology, and technical standards of equine-assisted therapy in Brazil.

For more information, visit:

Yes, equine-assisted therapy is recognized by various sectors and professional councils in Brazil:

  • 1997: The Federal Council of Medicine (CFM) recognized equine-assisted therapy as a valid therapeutic method.
  • 2008: The Federal Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy (COFFITO) officially recognized equine-assisted therapy.
  • 2019: Official recognition by the State through the enactment of Law No. 13.830/2019.
  • Bill No. 3446/19: Currently under review in the Senate, this bill proposes including equine-assisted therapy as a therapeutic resource under Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS), subject to medical prescription and Ministry of Health protocols.

For additional details, visit:

Yes, there are various initial and advanced training options for professionals interested in equine-assisted therapy in Brazil:

  • Basic Course on Equine-Assisted Therapy: An introductory course for health and education professionals, typically consisting of approximately 40 hours.
  • Advanced Course on Equine-Assisted Therapy: A complementary program offering deeper technical and methodological insights.
  • Postgraduate Specialization in Equine-Assisted Therapy: A lato sensu program offered in partnership with institutions such as the University of Brasília (UnB), with an average workload of 360 hours.
  • Technical Improvement Courses: Specialized training programs in fields such as physical therapy, psychology, occupational therapy, and equitation.
  • Equitation Instructor Course: Designed for professionals directly involved in horse handling and training, this is the only course that does not require higher education.

Additional details:

  • ANDE-BRASIL – Courses

    There are 2 postgraduate specialization courses in Equine Assisted Service (EAS) area, they are:
     
    1)  Equine Assisted Service (EAS) Postgraduate specialization, oferecido pela ABRE 
     
     2)   Horse Assisted Intervention Postgraduate specialization , oferecido pela Fundação Rancho GG
    Another important point to update the EAS in Brazil is the Bill No. 544/24 (House of Representatives of São Paulo State, largest city in Brazil) which purposes a program called Equine Assisted Interventions.


    4 Is there an official registry of equine-assisted therapy centers? Who organizes it and how?

Yes, ANDE-BRASIL manages and supervises the official registry of equine-assisted therapy centers across Brazil. There are currently over 500 registered centers, which must meet the following criteria:

  • Affiliation with ANDE-BRASIL: Centers must join the association to ensure they operate within established technical and ethical standards.
  • Operating License: Centers must obtain municipal licenses and comply with local regulatory bodies’ requirements to operate legally.

For more information on registration and centers, visit:

Brazil (Português)
  1. Existe algum regulamento específico para a equoterapia no Brasil?

Sim, a equoterapia no Brasil é regulamentada por diversos documentos e normativas.

  • Lei nº 13.830/2019: Regulamenta a prática da equoterapia como método terapêutico reconhecido em nível nacional. Essa lei estabelece os requisitos e as diretrizes básicas para sua aplicação.
  • Estatuto da ANDE-BRASIL: Documento interno que define as normas e os padrões técnicos para os centros de equoterapia filiados à Associação Nacional de Equoterapia (ANDE-BRASIL).
  • Carta de Brasília: Documento que reforça os princípios, a metodologia e os padrões técnicos da prática de equoterapia no Brasil.

Para mais informações, acesse:

Sim, a equoterapia é reconhecida por diferentes setores e conselhos de classe no Brasil:

  • 1997: O Conselho Federal de Medicina (CFM) reconheceu a equoterapia como método terapêutico válido.
  • 2008: O Conselho Federal de Fisioterapia e Terapia Ocupacional (COFFITO) reconheceu oficialmente a prática da equoterapia.
  • 2019: Reconhecimento oficial pelo Estado com a promulgação da Lei nº 13.830/2019.
  • Projeto de Lei nº 3446/19: Atualmente em tramitação no Senado, este projeto visa incluir a equoterapia como recurso terapêutico no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), mediante prescrição médica e seguindo protocolos estabelecidos pelo Ministério da Saúde.

Para mais informações, veja:

Sim, há diversas opções de formação inicial e continuada para profissionais interessados em trabalhar com equoterapia:

  • Curso Básico de Equoterapia: Formação inicial destinada a profissionais da saúde e da educação, com carga horária de aproximadamente 40 horas.
  • Curso Avançado de Equoterapia: Formação complementar que aprofunda conhecimentos técnicos e metodológicos.
  • Especialização em Equoterapia: Curso lato sensu oferecido em parceria com instituições como a Universidade de Brasília (UnB), com carga horária média de 360 horas.
  • Cursos Técnicos de Aprimoramento: Programas específicos para diferentes áreas, como fisioterapia, psicologia, fonoaudiologia, terapia ocupacional e equitação.
  • Curso para Instrutores de Equitação: Voltado para profissionais que atuam diretamente no manejo e treinamento de cavalos, não exigindo formação superior.

Informações adicionais:

  • ANDE-BRASIL – Cursos
    Existem dois cursos de pós graduação na área dos Serviços Assistidos com Equinos (SAE). São eles:
     
    1) Pós-graduação em Serviços Assistidos com Equinos (SAE), oferecido pela ABRE
     2)  Pós-graduação em Intervenções Assistidos com Cavalos, oferecido pela Fundação Rancho GG

    Outra importante informação a ser atualizada diz respeito ao Projeto de Lei N 544/24 (Assembleia Legislativa do Estado de São Paulo), o qual propõe a criação de um programa chamado de Intervenções Assistidas com Equinos

    4 Há registro oficial dos centros de equoterapia? Como é feito e por quem é organizado?

Sim, a ANDE-BRASIL organiza e supervisiona o registro oficial de centros de equoterapia no Brasil. Atualmente, existem mais de 500 centros registrados, que devem atender aos seguintes critérios:

  • Filiação à ANDE-BRASIL: A adesão à associação é necessária para assegurar que o centro opere dentro dos padrões técnicos e éticos estabelecidos.
  • Alvará de Funcionamento: Os centros precisam obter licenças municipais e cumprir com as exigências dos órgãos de fiscalização locais para operarem legalmente.

Para detalhes sobre registro e centros:

Czech Republic (česky)

    Národní standardy pro hiporehabilitaci v České republice

    Metodiky a standardy

    Česká hiporehabilitační společnost (ČHS) stanovila odborné metodiky a standardy pro hiporehabilitaci v ČR.

    • Odborné vzdělání: Specifické požadavky pro fyzioterapeuty, ergoterapeuty, pedagogy, sociální pracovníky a psychology.
    • Bezpečnostní standardy: Kritéria pro bezpečné prostředí, vybavení a práci s klienty.
    • Standardy kvality: Pro jednotlivé oblasti hiporehabilitace (HTFE, HPSP, HTP).
    • Kvalifikace koní: Požadavky na povahu, fyzickou kondici a specializační zkoušky koní.
    • Řád ochrany zvířat: Bezpečnostní a etická pravidla pro práci s koňmi.

    Více: Metodiky a standardy ČHS.

    Vzdělávání v oblasti hiporehabilitace

    Pro práci v hiporehabilitaci jsou stanoveny specifické kvalifikační požadavky:

    • Hipoterapie ve fyzioterapii a ergoterapii (HTFE) – pouze pro fyzioterapeuty a ergoterapeuty.
    • Hiporehabilitace v pedagogické a sociální praxi (HPSP) – určeno pro pedagogy a sociální pracovníky.
    • Hipoterapie v psychiatrii a psychologii (HTP) – vyžaduje psychologické nebo psychiatrické vzdělání.
    • Kurzy pro asistenty v hiporehabilitaci – zaměřené na podporu terapeutického týmu.

    Dostupné vzdělávací kurzy:

    • Základní kurzy: Úvod do hiporehabilitace, HTFE, HPSP, HTP, kurzy pro asistenty.
    • Nadstavbové kurzy: Hipoterapie v rané péči, praktický asistent v hiporehabilitaci.
    • Workshopy a semináře na aktuální témata.

    Více:

    Systém kategorií hiporehabilitačních středisek

    ČHS rozděluje členská střediska do 4 kategorií podle kvalifikace odborníků a vhodnosti koní:

    1. Střediska praktické výuky – nejvyšší standardy, min. 5 let praxe, licencovaní koně.
    2. Střediska doporučené hiporehabilitace – kvalifikovaní odborníci, licencovaní koně.
    3. Registrovaná střediska – odborníci splňují požadavky, ale koně nejsou licencováni.
    4. Přidružená střediska – nesplňují plné požadavky, nebo nepracují s koňmi a poníky.

    Více: Provozovatelé hiporehabilitace.

    Tyto standardy pomáhají zajistit kvalitu a bezpečnost hiporehabilitace v ČR.

    Czech Republic (English)

      National Standards for Equine Assisted Services in the Czech Republic

      Methodologies and Standards

      The Czech Equine Facilitated Therapy Association (CEFTA) has established professional methodologies and standards for Equine Assisted Services (EAS) in the Czech Republic.

      • Professional Education: Specific requirements for physiotherapists, occupational therapists, educators, social workers, and psychologists.
      • Safety Standards: Criteria for a safe environment, equipment, and working with clients.
      • Quality Standards: Guidelines for different areas of Equine Assisted Services (HTFE, HPSP, HTP).
      • Equine Qualification: Requirements for temperament, physical condition, and specialised equine certification.
      • Animal Protection Regulations: Safety and ethical rules for working with equines.

      More information: Methodologies and Standards (CEFTA).

      Education in Equine Assisted Services

      Specific qualification requirements are set for professionals working in Equine Assisted Services:

      • Equine Assisted Therapy in Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy (HTFE) – for physiotherapists and occupational therapists only.
      • Equine Assisted Activities in Pedagogical and Social Practice (HPSP) – for educators and social workers.
      • Equine Assisted Therapy in Psychiatry and Psychology (HTP) – requires a background in psychology or psychiatry.
      • Courses for Assistants in Equine Assisted Services – focused on supporting the therapeutic team.

      Available courses:

      • Basic Courses: Introduction to Equine Assisted Services, HTFE, HPSP, HTP, and assistant courses.
      • Advanced Courses: Equine Assisted Therapy in Early Intervention.
      • Workshops and Seminars on current topics.

      More information:

      Classification System for Equine Assisted Services Centres

      CEFTA classifies its member centres into four categories based on professional qualifications and equine suitability:

      1. Practical Training Centres – highest standards, minimum of 5 years of experience, licensed therapy equines.
      2. Recommended Equine Assisted Services Centres – qualified professionals, licensed therapy equines.
      3. Registered Centres – professionals meet qualification criteria, but equines are not licensed.
      4. Affiliated Centres – do not meet full qualification criteria or do not work with therapy equines.

      More information: Equine Assisted Services Providers.

      These standards help ensure the quality and safety of Equine Assisted Services in the Czech Republic.

      France (English)

      Regulatory aspects

      Absence of specific rules
      There are no specific regulations for EAS in France, but there are practices and case law. The applicable rules differ depending on the type of practice. In particular, the Code of Sports applies to mounted activities where participants are autonomous in handling horses, and medical and social regulations apply to therapeutic activities and professionals operating under their protected titles (doctors, physiotherapists, speech therapists, nurses, occupational therapists, psychologists, etc.).

      Ref : étude IDE (https://equipedia.ifce.fr/autres-activites-equestres/mediation/etat-des-lieux-des-pratiques-de-mediation-equine-en-rance-et-cadre-juridique-applicable)

      Application of Common Law Rules
      Furthermore, the cross-disciplinary nature and diversity of EAS (agricultural, health, commercial, social, sports, educational…) make it impossible to establish an exhaustive and closed list of rules and standards applicable in general. It is understood that in the absence of specific rules, common law applies. For example, billing conditions follow general commercial rules dictated by the Commercial Code, but
      more restrictive or favorable rules may apply on a case-by-case basis, such as if the practitioner performs hippotherapy as part of their regulated liberal practice as a physiotherapist contracted by Social Security, or if the practitioner engages in horse-coaching within an agricultural enterprise subject to VAT.

      Similarly, responsibilities related to horses vary depending on whether the practitioner operates with their own horses and facilities, or if they use those of an equestrian center, and also depending on their employment status as an employee or an independent practitioner. In one case, they will need to follow requirements for horse ownership and hold a certificate of competence, in another they will need to hold a
      sports teaching diploma with an equestrian specialty and a Youth & Sports ministry accreditation, or in another case, they may not be subject to any of these rules.

      Standards supported by the Sector

      To regulate the sector, several professional organizations participate in various actions aimed at promoting and improving practices, including:

      • Initial training and certification of practitioners
      • Continuous training, supervision, and analysis of professional practices
      • Collection of ethical commitments and best practices
      • Grouping and promotion of qualified and committed professionals
      • Certification of practitioners and organizations meeting the highest quality standards
      • Reporting and investigation of complaints for malpractice

      Membership in these organizations is voluntary; however, not being a member is generally perceived (by peers and the public) as a sign of caution.

      Higher standards for higher specialized EAS
      The most specific networks for certain practices, such as SFE, particularly equine-assisted psychotherapy, impose the strictest criteria, including:

      • A social/medical title at least equivalent to 2 years of higher education
      • An equestrian level higher than Gallop 4
      • A diploma from one of the 3 EAP training programs (FENTAC, SFE, IFEq) requiring at least 600 hours of training
      • A commitment to ethical conduct through the signing of a charter

      Global standards for general EAS
      The more general networks, which bring together practitioners from all fields of equine mediation, have broader membership criteria, while still including a commitment to best practices. The main rule is to justify one’s qualification for the EAS practiced, and the assessment of this justification is left to the sponsorship of 2 colleagues and on the decision of an expert in the relevant sector, based on practices within that sector. For example:

      • For unspecified EAS : EAS training and/or practice for at least 300 hours
      • For hippotherapy: a paramedical title and training or practice in EAS for at least 300 hours
      • For EAP: a specific diploma in EAP
      • For horse coaching: a coaching diploma and training in EAS of at least 300 hours
      • For adapted riding: a teaching diploma in equestrianism and a diploma in adapted equestrian activities

      National EAS Providers Registers

      SIPME : https://www.sipmediationequine.fr/cartographie/

      SFE : https://sfequitherapie.fr/adherent/

      FENTAC : https://fentac.org/annuaire.php

      Equicie France : https://www.equitaide.com/equicie-en-france/

      Fédération Française d’Equitation

       

      France (Français)

      Aspects réglementaires


      Absence de règles spécifiques
      Il n’y a pas de réglementation spécifique à la médiation équine en France, mais il existe des usages et une jurisprudence. Les règles applicables sont différentes suivant le type de pratique exercée. En particulier, le Code du Sport s’applique aux activités montées dans lesquelles les participants sont autonomes dans la conduite des chevaux, et les réglementations médicales et médico-sociales s’appliquent aux activités thérapeutiques et aux professionnels exerçant en référence à leur titre protégé (médecins, kinésithérapeutes, orthophonistes, infirmiers, ergothérapeutes, psychologues, etc.).

      Réf : étude IDE (https://equipedia.ifce.fr/autres-activites-equestres/mediation/etat-des-lieux-des-pratiques-de-mediation-equine-en-france-et-cadre-juridique-applicable)

      Application des règles de droit commun
      Par ailleurs, la nature transversale et la diversité des activités de médiation équine (agricole, santé, commerciale, sociale, sportive, éducative…) fait qu’il n’est pas possible d’établir une liste exhaustive et fermée de règles et standards applicables de façon générale, étant entendu qu’en l’absence de règles spécifiques ce sont les règles de droit commun qui s’appliquent. Par exemple, les conditions de facturation suivent les règles commerciales générales dictées par le Code du Commerce, mais des règles plus contraignantes ou plus avantageuses peuvent s’appliquer au cas par cas, par exemple si le praticien exerce l’hippothérapie dans le cadre de son activité libérale réglementée de kinésithérapeute conventionné par la SS, ou bien si le praticien exerce le horse coaching au sein d’une entreprise agricole soumise à TVA.

      De même, les responsabilités liées aux chevaux sont différentes suivant que le praticien exerce avec ses propres chevaux et installations, ou s’il utilise celles d’un centre équestre, mais également selon son statut d’emploi salarié ou indépendant. Dans un cas, il devra suivre des obligations sur la détention d’équidés et être titulaire d’un certificat d’aptitude, dans un autre il devra être titulaire d’un diplôme d’enseignant sportif mention équitation et d’un agrément J&S, ou dans un autre il ne sera concerné par aucune de ces règles.

      Standards imposés par la filière

      Afin de réguler la filière, plusieurs organisations professionnelles participent à différentes actions de promotion et amélioration des pratiques, notamment :
      • formation initiale et certification des praticiens
      • formation continue, supervision et analyse de pratiques professionnelles
      • recueil d’engagements déontologiques et de bonnes pratiques
      • regroupement et promotion des professionnels qualifiés et engagés
      • labellisation des praticiens et organismes répondant aux meilleurs standards de qualité
      • signalement et instruction de plaintes pour mauvaises pratiques

      L’adhésion à ces organisations est volontaire, toutefois le fait de ne pas être adhérent est généralement perçu (par les confrères et par le public) comme un signe de vigilance.

      Les plus hauts critères pour les branches les plus spécifiques

      Les réseaux les plus spécifiques à certaines pratiques, notamment à l’équithérapie (EAP), imposent les critères les plus sévères, notamment :
      • titre médico-social d’un niveau supérieur à Bac +2
      • niveau équestre supérieur à Galop 4
      • diplôme d’une des 3 formations d’équithérapeute (FENTAC, SFE, IFEq) imposant un parcours d’au moins 600h
      • prise d’un engagement déontologique à travers la signature d’une charte

      Des critères plus globaux pour les réseaux les plus larges

      Les réseaux les plus généraux, regroupant des praticiens en ME de tous bords, imposent des critères d’adhésion plus larges, tout en incluant un engagement aux bonnes pratiques. La règle étant de justifier de sa qualification pour les activités de ME exercées, et l’appréciation de cette justification est laissée à un expert du domaine concerné, sur la base des usages dans sa branche.
      Par exemple :
      • pour la médiation équine : une formation en ME et/ou une expérience d’au moins 300h
      • pour l’hippothérapie : un titre paramédical et une formation en ME ou expérience d’au moins 300h
      • pour l’équithérapie : un diplôme d’équithérapeute
      • pour le horse coaching : une formation de coach et une formation en ME d’au moins 300h
      • pour l’équitation adaptée : un diplôme d’enseignant d’équitation et un diplôme en équitation adaptée

       

      National EAS Providers Registers

      SIPME : https://www.sipmediationequine.fr/cartographie/

      SFE : https://sfequitherapie.fr/adherent/

      FENTAC : https://fentac.org/annuaire.php

      Equicie France : https://www.equitaide.com/equicie-en-france/

      Fédération Française d’Equitation

      Japan (English)

      Current situation

      There is no national standard in Japan.

      Background

      Compared to Europe and the US, horse riding for people with disabilities has a short history in Japan, and it started to spread nationwide in the 1990s. Recently, the term “horse therapy,” a term coined in Japan, has replaced EAS. One of the reasons for this is that the Japan Racing Association (JRA) provided large amounts of subsidies for the promotion of sports equestrianism and “horse therapy” four to five years before the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, and some organizations began to use JRA subsidies to conduct therapy activities with the aim of reusing retired racehorses, which has led to the term horse therapy becoming widely known.

      Current situation

      There are over 100 organizations and groups in Japan, many of which conduct “horse therapy” activities for children on the autism spectrum.

      Organizations that provide therapeutic horse riding for people with all kinds of disabilities, including intellectual disabilities and severe physical disabilities, are registered organizations of RDA Japan, or organizations or individuals who have learned at RDA Japan seminars. . As for para-equestrian events, the Japan Riding Association for the Disabled (JRAD) and Special Olympics each have athletes and compete in the sport, but JRAD, the organization for para-equestrian events, is not the headquarters of the Japan Equestrian Federation, but is positioned as the Para-Equestrian Committee.

      RDA Japan is the only organization in Japan that has established an instructor qualification system for therapeutic riding and has built a mutually beneficial relationship with HETI in this instructor qualification system. It also promotes a certified advisor system for medical professionals and has built a cooperative system to raise awareness of EAS activities among medical professionals who are not familiar with horses. Other organizations are also starting to carry out activities such as occupational therapists holding their own experience courses. However, in Japan, it is difficult to provide true hippotherapy due to the structure of the country’s medical system.

      Research activities are becoming more active these days, and some universities seem to be conducting research on horse welfare and the wellbeing of horses and humans. Some universities offer classes where you can learn the basics of “horse therapy”.

      Japan ( 日本語)

      現状

      日本には国家基準がない。

      背景

      欧米に比べ、日本における障がい者乗馬の歴史は浅く、1990年代から全国に広まっていった。昨今ではEASに代わり日本独自の造語である「ホースセラピー」という言葉が主流となっているのが現状である。その要因の一つとして、2020年の東京オリンピック・パラリンピック競技大会の4～5年前より、日本中央競馬会（JRA）がスポーツ馬術と「ホースセラピー」の推進のための補助事業として多額の補助金を交付したことや、引退した競走馬の再利用を目的としたJRA補助金によるセラピー活動を開始する団体が出てきたことなどが挙げられ、ホースセラピーという言葉が広く知られるようになったことが挙げられる。

      現状

      日本には100を超える団体・グループがあり、その多くは自閉症スペクトラムの子どもたちを対象に「ホースセラピー」活動を行っている。

      知的障害や重度身体障害などあらゆる障がい者を対象にセラピー乗馬を提供する団体は、RDA Japanの登録団体、またはRDA Japanのセミナーで学んだ団体や個人である。パラ馬術競技については、日本障がい者乗馬協会（JRAD）とスペシャルオリンピックスがそれぞれ選手を擁し、競技活動を行っている。パラ馬術競技の団体であるJRADは、日本馬術連盟の本部ではなく、パラ馬術委員会という位置づけである。

      RDA Japanは日本で唯一、セラピューティックラディングにおけるインストラクター資格取得制度を設けており、このインストラクター資格取得制度においてはHETIと互恵的な関係を築いている。また、医療従事者向けの認定アドバイザー制度を推進し、馬に馴染みのない医療従事者へのEAS活動の認知度向上に向けた協力体制を構築しています。他団体においても作業療法士が独自に体験講習会を行なうなどの活動も行なわれつつある。しかし日本では、国の医療制度の構造上、真のヒポセラピーを提供するのは難しい。

      昨今では研究活動も盛んになりつつあり、いくつかの大学では馬のウェルフェアや人馬のウェルビーングについての研究も行なわれているようだ。大学において”ホースセラピー”の基本を学べる授業を提供している大学がある。

      New Zealand

      NZRDA National Standards Document.

      NZ Riding for the Disabled Association (NZRDA) is NZ’s only internationally recognised and accredited therapeutic horse-riding provider and follows a wide range of NZ standards to ensure we deliver a safe and effective programme for our Riders. 

      Within NZ, there is no national regulatory body or register outside of RDA for therapeutic horse riding or EAS.   As such we can only comment on NZRDA’s compliance with National Legislation and Standards.  NZRDA is the national governing body that sets the standards, certifies compliance with these standards and trains to meet these standards.  NZRDA monitors and regulates compliance of all our affiliated RDA Groups.  Non-compliance would result in disaffiliation from NZRDA.

      Our affiliated RDA groups undergo a yearly operational certification process and requires qualified coaches and trained volunteers to run our Programmes.  This ensures they are running a high-quality safe service that meets the national requirements of all key NZ legislation. 

      The following national standards are used to guide all NZRDA policies, guidelines and training:

      Equine Standards and Regulations

      All NZRDA groups are required to follow the following:

      • Animal Welfare Act 1999
      • Code of Welfare – Horses and Donkeys (2018)

      These outline the standards that must be achieved by all RDA groups when managing their horse herds to ensure their wellbeing and safety. We also strongly encourage our RDA groups to follow the principles of Equitation Science in their horse training and care.

      NZRDA is also part of a wider working group made up of NZ based equine organisations who are looking at how the Social Licence to Operate works and is managed here in NZ. This has included the establishment of the One Voice Equine Aotearoa – Charter, which outlines the commitments to horse welfare, which NZRDA has signed and committed to for all RDA groups.

       Disability

      NZRDA is a recognised disability support service within NZ and follows all key NZ disability legislation to support our riders. This includes:

      • UN convention of rights of disabled people
      • NZ Disability Strategy (2016-2026)
      • NZ Disability Action Plan
      • Health and Disability Commissioner Act 1994
      • Health and Disability Commissioner Code of Disability Rights 1996
      • Health and Disability Services (Safety) Act 2001.
      • Ngā Paerewa Health and Disability Services Standard 2022

      Health Professionals

      • Any Therapist practicing within a RDA group must be registered within their professional body and hold an annual practicing certificate under the Health Practitioners Competency Assurance Act 2003. 
      • As part of the professional registration process, health practitioners must show evidence of regular professional development and engagement with key competencies for their individual professions. 
      • Therapists must also practice within their scope of practice for their profession within their role at RDA. 

      Health and Safety

      All RDA groups in NZ must follow the requirements of the following legislations, which is incorporated into NZRDA Policies and Guidelines. 

      • Health and Safety at Work Act 2015
      • Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017
      • Smoke-free environments and regulated products Act 1990 and Smoke Free Amendment 2003.
      • Accident Compensation Amendment Act 2010

      Building planning and regulations

      Buildings within RDA groups in NZ must be fit for purpose. There are different requirements based off the age of the building and purpose, but all are checked regularly as part of the NZRDA Operational Certificate process. 

      • Building Act 2024 – Includes accessible building code
      • NZ Standard Specification 4121: 2001 – Code of Practice for design for access and use of buildings by disabled people.

      Local Council regulations

      Each RDA group must follow their individual local council regulations especially around use of their grounds and environmental protection. 

      • Local Government Act 2002

      Employment Law

      Many RDA groups in NZ are employers, with paid staff members as well as volunteers. This means that they are required to follow the requirements of all NZ employment legislation including:

      • Employment Relations Act 2000
      • Holidays Act 2003
      • Parental Leave and Employment Protection Act 1987
      • Minimum Wage Act 1984

      Charities Regulations

      Both NZRDA and individual RDA groups are registered charities with the NZ Charities Services, who are a government entity who administers the requirements of the Charities Act, keeping a register of charities in NZ and overseeing the governance and management of charitable organisations. All groups are required to submit an annual return outlining their income, expenditure and activities. 

      • Charities Act 2005/ Charities Act Amendment Bill 2023
      • NZ Charities Services

      Treaty of Waitangi

      The Treaty of Waitangi is the founding document of relations between Māori and non Māori in New Zealand. Signed in 1840, it is an agreement on the partnership and rights for both parties, creating a bi cultural society. The Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975 gave the Treaty legal recognition in NZ, which is now woven through all government legislation and practices for organisations in NZ. 

      • Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975

      Privacy and information protection

      Privacy and information security is guided by several acts in NZ. RDA groups all must comply with the requirements of the Privacy Act 2020, especially around the storage and use of confidential information. Any therapists practicing within RDAs are also guided by the Health Information Privacy Code 2020, which aligns to the Privacy Act 2020.

      • Privacy Act 2020
      • Health Information Privacy Code 2020

      Child Protection and safeguarding

      Child protection and safeguarding with NZ RDA groups is legislated by the Vulnerable Children’s Act 2017, which outlines the requirements needed to keep our riders safe. This includes safety checking all volunteers and having internal RDA policies on reporting and following up on any concerns.

      • Vulnerable Children’s Act 2017

      Insurance

      • It is not a legal requirement to hold Public Liability Insurance, but it is ethical and prudent to do so.  NZRDA as the national body holds Public Liability Cover for all Groups

      Inclusion and diversity/ Human Rights

      All RDA groups are required to follow the rights outlined in the Human Rights Act 1993. This act focuses on giving all people equal opportunities and preventing unfair treatment on the basis of irrelevant personal characteristics. It outlines both the rights as well as the areas that it is unlawful to discriminate against someone such as in employment, access to public places and provision of goods and services. 

      • Human Rights Act 1993

      NZ Qualifications Authority

      All RDA coaches in NZ are required to complete a NZ Qualifications Authority (NZQA) recognised qualification in order to coach. These qualifications are moderated and regulated by external organisations who work within the following acts and services:

      • Education and Training Act 2020
      • NZ Qualifications Authority – Crown entity that oversees the funding, provision and quality of qualifications in NZ
      • Tertiary Education Commission
      • Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021 – Makes sure learners are safe and supported in their study.

      Equestrian Sport NZ (ESNZ)

      • Sport NZ is the governing body for overseeing sports funding and development in NZ. It is a government entity, reporting outcomes towards wider government strategies on supporting wellbeing through sport and recreation.
      • ESNZ is the national sports organisation for equestrians in NZ, who manage Sport NZ funding for equestrian competition and development.
      • NZRDA and ESNZ work together to share information and messaging around equestrian activities, Social Licence to Operate as well as pathways for Riders into competition. 

       

      UK

      Equine related

      • Animal Welfare Act 2006 https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/45/contents
        Anyone responsible for an animal must take reasonable steps to make sure the
        animal’s welfare needs are met:
        (a) its need for a suitable environment,
        (b) its need for a suitable diet,
        (c) its need to be able to exhibit normal behaviour patterns,
        (d) any need it has to be housed with, or apart from, other animals, and
        (e) its need to be protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease.
      • The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 (https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2018/486/contents) require persons to be licensed in order to carry out certain activities. The Regulations set out the duties of local authorities to license activities involving animals and the relevant establishments relating to this. Therefore, Local Authority Welfare licence (DEFRA) should apply to EAS practice. However, some UK L.A.s consider EAS centres to be exempt, even though ‘pony parties’ are specifically mentioned as ‘in scope’ for the Animal Exhibition licence. Ridden EAS would fall under the Riding Establishment licence. Some LA’s consider all charities to be out of scope, whilst others recognise that charities are being paid for services and are therefore in scope. We recommend all EAS providers get written advice from their Local Authority.
      • DEFRA provides “Code of practice for the welfare of HORSES, PONIES,
        DONKEYS AND THEIR HYBRIDS”
      •  All UK horses must have a passport as per Equine Identification (England)
        Regulations 2018
        https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2018/761/pdfs/uksi_20180761_en.pdf

      Planning

      Health and Safety

      Data Protection

      • The Data Protection Act 2018 is the UK’s implementation of the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) sets out how personal data must be used, protected, stored and deleted. Highly relevant for EAS where we receive health info as part of referrals (extra rules around sensitive data). https://www.gov.uk/data-protection

      Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

      Insurance

      • Public liability insurance covers all the ways in which we may be liable to third parties for damage/injury caused by our negligence (common law Tort). Surprisingly, public liability insurance is not mandatory by law. However, a successful legal claim (eg a service user injured by an EAS horse) could wipe out an EAS business or sole trader, so it is essential as well as ethical. Most contracts with local authorities, schools etc will demand proof of PL insurance to ensure the people in their care will be adequately compensated in the event of an injury (often £10M).

      Occupiers liability insurance

      • If you have control over your premises, the Occupiers' Liability Act 1957 and Occupiers Liability Act 1984 apply. The obligation is to provide safe premises for all visitors, including burglars! Again, surprisingly, there is no legislation mandating that we have Occupiers Liability insurance but it is highly recommended in case something happens such as a roof falling on somebody, a trip hazard, etc.
        https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/Eliz2/5-6/31/section/2 and https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1984/3

      Employers liability insurance

      • Mandatory if you have staff or volunteers. The Employers’ Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969 requires every employer, unless exempt, to insure against liability for bodily injury or disease sustained by his employees in the course of their employment, and to maintain this insurance. You also have to display the annual insurance certificate where staff/vols can see it. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1969/57/contents

      Safeguarding Children and vulnerable adults

      National EAS Providers Registers
      EAS provision is not a regulated profession in the UK, so national registers are voluntary, not mandatory.

      Accredited Practitioner Register (PSA)
      https://athenaherd.org/accredited-practitioner-register/
      Managed by Athena Herd Foundation CIC, this register is open to individual EAS practitioners (not organisations) demonstrating the required standards. The register is accredited by the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care (PSA – an independent organisation, accountable to the UK Parliament)
      https://www.professionalstandards.org.uk/what-we-do/accredited-registers

      The UK Human Equine Interaction Register (HEIR)
      https://easp.co.uk/
      Managed by the Equine Assisted Services Partnership CIC, the membership body for the UK Equine Assisted Services sector, HEIR is a voluntary register for practitioners from physical and psychological therapies to learning outcomes. This register is open to EAS service providers, individuals or organisations, demonstrating the required five standards.

      Quality assurance

      Green Care Quality Mark
      https://www.farmgarden.org.uk/projects/green-care-quality-mark
      Managed by Social Farms & Gardens (charity), this is a non-accredited, site-specific annual quality mark for “green care” organisations.