Keith Haggins Named Racing Welfare Community Engagement Officer

Keith Haggins has been named the new Racing Welfare community engagement officer, the charity announced on Thursday.

Haggins will focus on the thoroughbred stud and breeding sector to raise awareness of and increase access to the charity's services. He have almost 30 years of experience in the thoroughbred breeding industry, and managed Waddesdon Stud for the late Lady Rothschild. His role is part of a three-year project made possible by funding from the Gerald Leigh Charitable Trust. Already, progress has been made in the project's first year, with a survey which gauged the current level of awareness of Racing Welfare services and the type of support required already completed.

Haggins said, “I'm incredibly excited to join Racing Welfare. I know the stud and breeding industry really well and am looking forward to capitalising on that for the benefit of others.

“I've already had some really positive meetings with many stakeholders including the Thoroughbred Breeders' Association and The National Stud and am looking forward to attending the upcoming sales at Tattersalls to meet those I'm trying to engage with and find out how we can improve understanding of, and access to, our vital services.

“I have a passion for all things surrounding mental health and have recently returned to education to become a Licenced Thrive programme coach; helping people with a wide range of issues including personal development.”

Chloe Martin, Racing Welfare's head of community engagement, said, “We're delighted to welcome Keith to the team, and know that with his knowledge and passion for the sector, he will be an asset to the charity and to all those he supports.

“Through improved access to, and knowledge of, Racing Welfare's services, more people in the thoroughbred stud and breeding sector will be able to benefit from better physical and mental wellbeing.”