IJF offers invaluable support on all levels

The Injured Jockeys Fund comes into its own in these unfortunate times working tirelessly to help stricken jockeys and their families.

The charity swung into action as soon as the extent of Freddy Tylicki's injuries became apparent on Monday.

Lucy Charnock, the IJF almoner, was on hand to help Tylicki's family, mother Irene and sister Madeleine, as soon as they flew in from Ireland to be at his bedside.

Lisa Hancock, the IJF chief executive, explained what the organisation does for any injured jockey. "We're there to make life easier for everyone involved at a very difficult time. We continue to do that for as long as we're needed," she said.

"We try to take the pressure off in terms of logistics, providing local accommodation for family and managing the media in the early hours to get factual information out and stop rumours."

In the most serious cases the IJF is involved for much longer than any hospital stay.

Hancock added: "We have the experience of assisting people on all levels, giving moral, pastoral and financial support."

That would include financing extra medical requirements and any changes needed to homes, vehicles and other machinery.