Would you use a freelance groom?

[sarah21]

Hi. Just wanted some feedback on the use of freelance grooms. I am seriously considering it to make up my hours from my part time job in retail, however i wouldn’t really know where to start and need to know if the need for it is out there. I have researched insurance, and would cover myself for public liability and personal accident, and i would be able to cover the northwest Cheshire area.

I have lots of experience in the equine industry and have just completed an equine foundation degree at university.

Any feedback would be very much appreciated but I’d like to ask just a couple of questions to get a feel for the market:

1) Would you use a freelance groom or use help from family and friends?

2) If so, would you prefer to pay:
per horse per day?
per hour?
per task? (mucking out/lunging etc)

3) And how much would you be willing to pay for stable and yard duties, and for exercising? (if you dont mind me asking, but if ud prefer not to disclose this information its no problem

Many thanks
Sarah x

[Louise Dixon]

Mainly I wouldn't at the moment because I am trying to cut down my spending, but in general I think it is quite a good idea, especially as you would be doing it to supplement your other job and it doesn't cost much to get going. You do need to think carefully about insurance though so you are fully covered. I have a girl I do use a bit when I really need some help, I pay her by the hour, but that is because I know how hard she works - I am not for a minute suggesting you don't, but for people who don't know you they might prefer to pay by task.

I would get an advert up in local tack shops and on your local hunt/riding club website, with a couple of pics of something you can do especially well, e.g. a beautifully plaited mane.

Good luck!

[sarah21]

Hi Mowhaugh

Thankyou for your response, and your advice is very much appreciated it helps to get feedback from those who already have grooms that help them, and any advice is whats going to help me get started

Thankyou again
Sarah

[bellaboop1]

Hi i would use one expecially when i go away.When i was on my own yard i needed a freelance groom and would prefer to pay by each thing done! we pay about 4.30 for a muck out and 5.50 for riding
Hope this helps

[sarah21]

Hi bellaboop1

Thankyou for your reply and yeah its definately helping getting responses from people who already use freelance grooms, its much appreciated

Thanks
Sarah

[larkhaven]

I still do the odd bit of freelance groom work, and try to set a fair price, taking into account fuel etc. I don't charge by the hour, but try to aim to earn around £6 per hour. For example, I have a regular client who has 2 horses. Her turnout is a good 10 mins walk from the stables. I charge her £10 per visit .
I have BHS Gold membership which gives me good third party cover.

Bellaboop - wish I could get a rider for £5.50 -I have to pay £15!!

[sarah21]

Thanks larkhaven one thing tho, does the BHS insurance cover for business use??? i didnt think it did, is it not just for personal use?

Thanks
Sarah