Vulnerable Horse Scheme (VHS)
About the VHS
Supported by the Horseracing Betting Levy Board (HBLB).
The Vulnerable Horse Scheme (VHS) provides charitable support for Thoroughbreds who are at risk due to health problems or changes in their owner's circumstances.
RoR works closely with a trusted network of charities to offer this important safety net. Our goal is to make sure that no eligible horse is left without help, at any stage of life after racing.
The VHS is a key part of racing’s unique commitment to lifelong care — a level of aftercare unmatched in other equestrian disciplines.
Who is considered vulnerable?
RoR defines a vulnerable horse as:
- A Thoroughbred that is clearly in danger, or at risk of neglect or suffering, and would not be safe without charitable intervention.
Vulnerable does not necessarily include:
- Horses going through the sales ring or facing humane destruction.
- Horses coming directly from training are not eligible, as it is expected that their racing owner and trainer will make proper arrangements for their first step out of racing. The Retraining Assessment Programme (RAP) is designed to support these horses.
VHS eligibility criteria
To be eligible for grant funding through our Vulnerable Horse Scheme:
- The horse must be a Thoroughbred must be identifiable by microchip, racing brand, or a valid passport (Weatherby’s GSB or equivalent from another recognised racing authority).
- The horse must be currently located in Great Britain.
- There must be clear evidence of vulnerability, meaning the horse is at genuine risk without charitable intervention.
- To be accepted onto the scheme, all horses must legally be signed over and the relinquishing owner retains no legal rights to the horse.
How to apply
If you have found yourself no longer able to support your ex-racehorse and feel that he/she has no financial value or is unable to be sold on the open market, please complete the VHS application form and email it to [email protected] for review.
Support our work
Donate to RoR to help us support ex-racehorses. We rely on the generosity of people like you to help us support as many horses as possible. Find out more about the ways you can donate.