RDA Insurances – the Mystery Unravelled

Chairman of the Sport and Recreation Team at Howden insurance brokers, Richard Doubleday, explains the “mystery of insurance” RDA Insurances -The mystery Unravelled

Having worked in the insurance industry for over twenty years I am acutely aware of the pitfalls of my profession as far as consumers are concerned. Generally, the products we supply are treated with suspicion, the language we use is unintelligible and, if a claim arises, doubters believe insurers will look to the small print to see if they can avoid making a payment.

Not good then; however that is not always the case and I would like to think, at least in the case of the RDA and its member groups, your broker Howden and insurer Hiscox, are doing a good job.

Having said that, we do acknowledge the language we use can be confusing and long winded. As such,

in this article, I have been challenged by the RDA to provide a very simple summary of the insurances provided, what to do in the event of an accident, and when to let us know if one of your riders, drivers, employees or volunteers has suffered an injury. Here goes!

Your cover

All RDA member groups, volunteers and staff receive Public Liability insurance protection. In effect, if you are working either as a volunteer or employee, you are “covered” if you are alleged to have caused an injury to another person, or damage to property. Insurers will pay your legal defence costs and, if you are found to have been at fault, damages will be paid on your behalf. Likewise, groups with professional staff are similarly protected if an employee is injured or suffers a loss. Groups also have access to a Legal Advice/Expenses policy – available 24/7 – covering a wide range of issues (including legal and taxation) that may affect the running of their business.

Volunteers and staff (but not participants) also receive Personal Accident benefits – which pay an agreed lump sum if they suffer a serious injury, whilst on RDA duty. In order to qualify for a payment under this policy the injury must be permanent and without expectation of recovery.

Incident advice

Whilst you do not necessarily need to know all about your insurance, it is essential that you and/or your group know what to do in the event of an incident – however slight it may be. In line with RDA protocols, you need to record all relevant information but, if you are wondering what that is, the first rule of thumb is to follow your instincts and use your common sense. In short, write down any details you think might be relevant, should you subsequently find yourself having to defend an

allegation of negligence. The quicker you write things down, using an incident form template or standard HSE form, after an incident has occurred, the better. Please also take relevant witness statements and keep all the information for at least three years or until the person involved is at least 21 years old.

Notifying an incident to your broker- Howden

When working with horses and ponies, it is inevitable that something will go wrong from time to time, the most obvious examples being a kick, or a fall. We advise, whatever the circumstance, details are written down and recorded, however you do not necessarily need to let us know.

By way of example, a few bruises, a graze, or a broken finger or toe does not need to be notified. A serious injury involving a hospital stay, or a head injury such as concussion, certainly does. Of course there is a massive area between the two examples, however the rule of thumb, once again, is to follow your instincts and use your common sense.

The one exception to the rule is allegations of any safeguarding related issues or abuse. In these circumstances please contact the Safeguarding Team at the RDA National Office immediately – and they will take any necessary further action.

By way of summary, then, here is our advice:

Set out with the firm intention of following RDA guidelines at all times. They have been extremely well constructed and have been proven to be “fit for purpose” time and time again

• If you have to deviate from those guidelines – make sure you record the reasons why, so your decision can be justified, should the need subsequently arise

• Follow your instincts and use your common sense. You are well trained, sensible and experienced people – don’t be afraid to use your skills

• If you are in doubt about anything – get in touch with a member of the Howden team

For further information:

If you would like to find out more about the insurance that is provided, all relevant information can be found at: www.rda-insurance-centre.com

• If you have a general enquiry that cannot be answered, please contact Catherine Morgan

• Email: catherine.morgan@ howdengroup.com Tel: 0207 133 1387

• If you have had an incident that you think may or will lead to a claim, please contact Karen Stewart. Email karen.stewart@ howdengroup.com Tel: 0121 698 5046

Both Karen and Catherine will be happy to help, and look forward to hearing from you.

And finally:

Enjoy what you do! The RDA is a wonderful organisation with dedicated groups and an army of well trained, experienced and committed volunteers. Without doubt, things will not always go according to plan, however the chances are you will never have an accident, or an injury, that gives rise to a claim.

So, keep up the good work, trust your instincts, use your common sense, and make a difference!