Survey launched to investigate relationship between racing and mental health

Racing Welfare and Liverpool John Moores University have launched an industry-wide online survey designed to explore the relationship between working in racing and a person’s mental wellbeing.

The survey, which is confidential and takes around 15 minutes to complete, looks into areas such as working conditions, health and professional development. It is hoped the survey will attract responses from a wide range of people within the industry.

Part funded by a grant from the Racing Foundation, the research is being undertaken by Will McConn of Liverpool John Moores University.

Everyone is welcome to take the survey, regardless of whether they feel their mental health falls within the spectrum, and it can be found at

Before this final stage of data collection, 130 individuals have already participated in research through a series of interviews and focus groups across the UK.

Those taking part included trainers, stable staff, jockeys, stud workers, racing secretaries, and representatives from various industry governing bodies.

The findings of the survey will help develop Racing Welfare’s mental health services as well as highlighting the many good practices already in place.

McConn said: "We're really pleased with the level of engagement we have encountered when undertaking the interview and focus group stage of the research. I have no doubt this openness will continue into the final phase of the project.

"The survey gives us an opportunity to include everyone working in racing and I would ask that as many people as possible take part to express their experiences and perspectives."

Racing Welfare's director of welfare Simone Sear added: "We anticipate that Will’s conclusions will underline a number of positive practices happening in racing as it stands, in addition to providing evidence that will help us to evolve and refine Racing Welfare’s mental health and wellbeing services."

The survey will be available until February 22 and the findings will be made available to the public on Monday, May 13.

Read The Briefing from 8.30am daily on racingpost.com and the Racing Post mobile app with all the day's latest going, weather, market moves and non-runner news