Leading organisations from across the equestrian sector have praised the National Equine Forum (NEF) for its role in bringing together industry experts, policymakers and welfare organisations to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing horses and horse owners.

The annual conference, held in March, attracted support from 21 sponsors representing charities, governing bodies, educational institutions and commercial organisations. Discussions at this year’s event covered a range of issues affecting the sector, including equine welfare, veterinary examinations, infectious disease control and the potential use of artificial intelligence to improve welfare outcomes.

As the UK’s leading independent equestrian conference, the National Equine Forum provides a platform for knowledge sharing, debate and collaboration between organisations working across all areas of the horse industry.

Jan Rogers of The Horse Trust said the event provides an opportunity for the equestrian community to share ideas and learn from emerging developments.

“It allows us to discuss and adopt these ideas within our community in the interests of better equine well-being.”

Stewart Everett of Equine Register described the forum as a “critical” annual gathering that helps organisations assess progress and identify priorities for the future.

The British Horseracing Authority also highlighted the value of the event in connecting different parts of the equestrian industry.

James Given, Director of Equine Health and Welfare at the BHA, said:

“The annual NEF conference always provides in equal measures education and challenge that advance everyone’s understanding of best practice and up to date knowledge.”

Tricia Nassau-Williams of the British Equestrian Trade Association said the event generates valuable discussion while creating important networking opportunities for the sector.

Lucy Atherton of the Worshipful Company of Saddlers added that the conference helps organisations better understand the concerns of horse owners and the wider public, particularly around horse welfare.

The National Equine Forum is organised by a committee of volunteers and operates as a not-for-profit event. Its continued success relies on support from sponsors committed to advancing knowledge and collaboration throughout the industry.

Speaking about the importance of sponsorship, NEF Chair Tim Brigstocke said:

“We are so grateful to all our sponsors for enabling our event to continue year after year. Without them it wouldn’t be possible.”

Organising committee member Tullis Matson also highlighted the networking opportunities created by the conference.

“Not only is the National Equine Forum a knowledge transfer, it’s also a networking event; so it’s a great way of meeting like-minded people for a great cause, which is the horse.”

Sponsors Supporting NEF 2026

Gold Sponsors

• Blue Cross
• The British Horse Society
• Equine Register
• Hartpury University
• The Horse Trust
• World Horse Welfare

Silver Sponsors

• British Equestrian
• British Equine Veterinary Association
• British Horseracing Authority
• Horserace Betting Levy Board
• The Mare and Foal Sanctuary
• RSPCA

Bronze Sponsors

• British Equestrian Trade Association
• British Farriers & Blacksmiths Association
• Dodson & Horrell
• The Donkey Sanctuary
• The Pony Club
• Redwings Horse Sanctuary
• SEIB Insurance Brokers
• Weatherbys
• Worshipful Company of Saddlers

Recordings from the 2026 National Equine Forum are available via the organisation’s YouTube channel.