Kempton Park Racecourse, supported by the Racing Foundation, is set to host a groundbreaking event aimed at revolutionizing the horseracing industry by addressing the needs of working parents. Scheduled for July 6, 2022, this event marks the launch of racing’s pioneering motherhood/parenthood portal, a collaborative effort between these organizations. This initiative seeks to educate and empower all stakeholders within the horseracing community, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for working parents.
The Racing Home Program:
Central to the event is the introduction of the ‘Racing Home’ program, designed to provide comprehensive support for working parents in horseracing. Partnered with the Women in Racing AGM, the event will feature a panel discussion with key contributors to the Racing Home initiative, including renowned TV presenter and journalist Aly Vance, alongside Ed Nicholson, Head of Racing at Unibet/Kindred. This discussion will shed light on the challenges faced by working parents, particularly women, within the industry and explore strategies to address them effectively.
Empowering Working Parents:
A statement from the organizers emphasizes the importance of empowering working parents by providing easy access to information regarding their rights and entitlements. This includes guidance on pregnancy, maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental leave, flexible working arrangements, self-employment, and statutory pay. By equipping stakeholders with this knowledge, the racing industry aims to create a supportive environment that enables individuals to balance their professional and family responsibilities effectively.
Women in Racing:
Founded in 2009, Women in Racing has been at the forefront of promoting gender diversity and inclusion within the horseracing community. The network is dedicated to elevating the profile of women in the sport and facilitating their progression to senior and board-level positions. Over the years, Women in Racing has achieved significant milestones, including the establishment of a successful mentoring scheme and a bursary fund. Additionally, the network hosts a range of educational and social events, furthering its mission to support and empower women in horseracing.
Objectives and Achievements:
Women in Racing is committed to attracting more women to the horseracing industry and fostering connections that promote the health and reputation of the sport. Through collaborative efforts and innovative initiatives, the network aims to position horseracing as an attractive sector for building a fulfilling career. By focusing on mentorship, education, and advocacy, Women in Racing continues to drive positive change and pave the way for greater gender diversity and inclusion within the industry.
The upcoming event at Kempton Park Racecourse signifies a significant step forward in addressing the needs of working parents in horseracing. By launching the ‘Racing Home’ program and facilitating discussions on parenthood and gender diversity, the industry is taking proactive measures to create a more inclusive and supportive environment. Through initiatives like Women in Racing, horseracing is not only embracing diversity but also driving innovation and progress, ensuring a brighter future for all stakeholders.