Autism in Racing Mentoring Programme
Supporting autistic people to explore, access, and thrive in racing
The Autism in Racing Mentoring Programme provides personalised, practical support for autistic individuals who want to discover opportunities across horseracing and equine careers. Led by our Neurodiversity Coach and Trainer, Vanda Latchford, the programme helps participants build confidence, develop skills, gain real experience, and take steps toward education, training, volunteering, or employment within the racing industry.
The programme is free of charge and open to autistic people of all ages.
What the Programme Offers
Our mentoring support is tailored to each person’s goals, interests, and needs. This can include:
Understanding strengths, communication styles, and sensory needs
Creating a personalised Neurodiversity Profile
Confidence building and autism-informed coaching
CV support, applications, and interview preparation
Exploring racing careers and pathways
Work-shadowing and taster opportunities
Supported placements at racecourses, studs, sales houses, and equine businesses
Parent and family support when helpful
Ongoing check-ins and guidance at every stage
The programme blends coaching, practical industry exposure, and sensitive preparation for real working environments.
Real Impact
Our mentees have already achieved significant progress:
Shadowing bloodstock agents including Sean Freney and Oliver St Lawrence
Work experience at Ascot Racecourse, supported by AiR neurodiversity training delivered to their team
Progression into grounds maintenance roles following relevant qualifications supported by AiR
Acceptance onto equine education pathways such as the British Racing School (BHS)
Increased confidence, independence, and clarity about future goals
“The Autism in Racing Mentoring Programme has given me the confidence and real-world experience I needed. Shadowing leading bloodstock figures opened doors and helped me see where I belong in the industry.”
— Louis Barnard, mentee
Each success begins with the same first step: a conversation about someone’s strengths, interests, and ambitions.
Who Can Apply
The mentoring programme is suitable for autistic individuals who:
Are interested in horseracing or equine careers
Would benefit from support in exploring opportunities
Want to build confidence, skills, or workplace readiness
May not have previously felt able to access racing environments
Are unsure where to begin, but want to take a step forward
No prior experience in racing is required.
Industry Support & Employer Partnerships
We work closely with organisations across the racing industry, including:
Racecourses
Bloodstock agents
Studs and training yards
Equine colleges and national training providers
Racing Welfare, NARS, and industry charities
Employers receive autism-awareness guidance and practical support to help them welcome and work confidently with neurodivergent staff or volunteers.
How to Get Involved
Whether you are:
An autistic individual interested in racing
A parent or carer
A teacher, SENCO, or organisation supporting autistic young people
An employer wanting to offer shadowing, taster days, or placements
We would love to hear from you.
