Compensation boost for injured jockeys
Compensation for jockeys sidelined through injury has been increased by 5% from the start of this month.
The level of compensation, particularly in relation to temporary injuries, had been frozen since March 2003 due to the financial position of the Professional Riders Insurance Scheme (PRIS).
The trustees of the scheme which compensates injured jockeys for loss of race ride income – and insures jockeys against career-ending personal injury – have now announced that the levels of compensation are to increase.
This is thanks to the replacement of cover for career-ending injuries in 2005 and the subsequent reduction on insurance costs.
The trustees hope to be able to implement further increases over the next three years.
In addition, the level of compensation for jockeys who are fatally injured has increased by 30% – with compensation also increasing by 65% for those that are permanently disabled.
PRIS chairman Christopher Sporborg said: “We have been looking to increase the level of benefits for some time and the security brought about by the reduction in our insurance premiums has allowed the trustees to fulfil their commitment to ensuring that injured jockeys are adequately compensated for injuries whilst working for the industry.”
John Blake, chief executive of the Jockeys Association, added: “PRIS is our most vital welfare service and our members welcome the trustees’ decision to increase the level of temporary benefits, which they have not been able to achieve for three years.”
