The Welfare Stewarding Group (WSG), led by founder Amanda Stoddart-West, is proud to announce that internationally respected equine scientist Dr David Marlin has accepted the role of President.
Founded three years ago, the WSG has rapidly grown in profile and demand in response to the increasing emphasis on Social Licence to Operate (SLO) within the equestrian world. The group provides independent, supportive welfare stewarding at equestrian shows and events across the UK.
The WSG was born out of a presentation by Amanda Stoddart-West at an Association of Show and Agricultural Organisations meeting, which led to a request from Betsy Branyan, Equine Secretary of the Royal Three Counties Show and the Equifest event, to support welfare stewarding at their events. The group’s first official presence was at the Three Counties Show in June 2023. Since then, demand has soared, with four events attended in 2023, eleven in 2024, and an estimated fifteen throughout 2025.
Now comprising over 50 trained stewards, the group ensures that each steward completes a formal training programme, developed with support from The British Horse Society (BHS). Cathy Hyde, BHS Welfare Officer, an active member of the WSG, and has been instrumental in delivering the initial training. Dr Tamzin Furtado has also helped shape the group and has presented webinars alongside Amanda Stoddart-West. Ongoing training includes topics such as motivational interviewing, which is essential for having respectful and constructive conversations with riders, owners, and handlers.
Operating under the mantra “Educate, Not Dictate,” the WSG’s mission is to support all stakeholders at events, from organisers to competitors, promoting good horsemanship and upholding high equine welfare standards.
Amanda Stoddart-West said:
“David has played a pivotal role over the past 18 months in helping us develop, standardise, and evaluate our welfare stewarding approach. His input has been invaluable in shaping our training materials and establishing fair, objective assessment protocols.”
Dr David Marlin commented:
“I am honoured to support the Welfare Stewarding Group as President. Education is at the heart of improving equine welfare, and I’m committed to helping riders and handlers through support and guidance, and when necessary, firm but fair action. I am also grateful to be working alongside my long-time collaborators, Lorna Cameron and Professor Jane Williams from Hartpury University.”
To find out more about the Welfare Stewarding Group, head to the open Facebook Page linked below, where you can find out more and how to register to join, be trained as a Welfare Steward and then volunteer at events.
The Welfare Stewarding Group operates as The Equine Welfare Stewarding Alliance Ltd, a not-for-profit organisation. Directors include Amanda Stoddart-West and Sarah Williamson.
For more information about the Welfare Stewarding Group (WSG), please contact: welfarestewardingteam@gmail.com
FACEBOOK PAGE – The Welfare Stewarding Group
