National Pony Society – Social Media Statement

Following its council meeting on Monday 4 September 2023, the National Pony Society joins other equestrian bodies in condemning all forms of online social media abuse. This includes, but is not limited to, any form of abuse through discrimination, bullying, harassment, hate speech or vitriolic content – across any social media channels, online postings, blogs and forums.

We ask members to remind themselves of the society’s social media and internet policy, outlined on page 31 of the online 2023 rulebook. Any reports of social media abuse made by, or against, NPS members will be dealt with under the society’s complaints and disciplinary procedures.

If NPS members have been impacted by any form of social media abuse, we recommend the following actions:

• Report any abuse to the relevant social media channel. You may also wish to block accounts
• Report any concerns over criminality to the police
• Speak to a solicitor or legal representative for advice. (Note – many home insurance policies include 24 / 7 legal helplines)
• The following organisations can help with general support and advice, and mental health and wellbeing
  • Citizens Advice
  • Riders’ Minds charity
  • NHS – mental health services
  • Samaritans

We expect all members to treat each other in a respectful manner, uphold the reputation of the society, and follow our social media and internet policy at all times.