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Communications update

Following feedback from our recent Parent Questionnaire, we are making some updates to how we manage communications within the Branch. These changes are designed to make information clearer, more consistent, and easier for everyone to access.

WhatsApp Groups

Going forward, we will maintain one main Branch WhatsApp group, which will be used for information and updates. This will ensure important messages reach everyone efficiently. All previous subgroups have now closed. From now onwards, any queries or questions can be directed to the relevant committee member.

Please join the new North Down WhatsApp group using this link:

https://tinyurl.com/NDPCMainWhatsApp

We have also opened some discipline groups for Tetrathlon, Games (will open in January once Games training resumes), Polocrosse and the Yela volunteers, as these disciplines have weekly training and more frequent updates. These groups will be renewed each year. If you are interested in any of these disciplines, or if you are currently completing your YELA awards you can join these groups here:

Games 2026: This group will open in the New Year, once Games training resumes – a link will be shared at that time.

Tetrathlon 2026: https://tinyurl.com/NDPCTetrathlon2026

Polocrosse 2026: https://tinyurl.com/Area17PolocrosseGroup

YELA 2026: https://tinyurl.com/NDPCYela2026

 

Temporary WhatsApp groups may still be created for specific purposes — for example, test training or Area competitions — but these will be short-term and closed once their purpose has been fulfilled.

Additional Communication Channels

  • Email: We will continue to use email to share important Branch updates, documents, and reminders.
  • Facebook: Our Branch Facebook page will continue to share upcoming events, news, and member successes, helping to celebrate achievements and keep our community connected.
  • Google Calendar: The calendar, shared earlier in October, will be updated regularly and can be used to plan ahead for rallies, training sessions, and other activities. A link to our can also be found here: https://tinyurl.com/NorthDownCalendar
Online booking: All Branch activities will be available to book via IPS no later than one week before the event date, ensuring everyone has sufficient notice to register. A link to our IPS booking site is here: https://itsplainsailing.com/org/northdown

Pony Club Rules and Policies

To keep everyone safe and uphold fair sportsmanship it is important to have Rules and Policies for competition and to support Official decision making. We encourage everyone to familiarise themselves with the Rules and the Pony Club Policies. Login into the Resource Hub to find out more.

Resource Hub FAQ’s

Parents’ Information

Volunteers and Officials all work together to offer a wealth of opportunities to Members. Parents and Guardians also play a vital role, discover more in the Resource Hub.

Resource Hub

Members Insurance

Every Member receives insurance cover from Howden Insurance Brokers Ltd, to protect Members whilst taking part in Pony Club and other equestrian activities. You will find information below about the insurance cover and it is strongly recommended that Parents, Guardians and Members review the information regarding the insurance policy provided.

Find out more

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and The Pony Club take Safeguarding very seriously. The Safeguarding Policy signposts a range of documents, provides guidance and key contacts to support those who may have concerns about a vulnerable child, young person or adult. The Branch Safeguarding Officer is available to discuss immediate concerns and you can visit the Resource Hub to find all the relevant documents.

Safeguarding