Two charity workers who are helping to improve the welfare of more than 400 equines were among the special individuals and organisations recognised at the National Equine Welfare Councils (NEWC) Strategic Goal Recognition Awards 2026.The awards demonstrated the value of collaboration across the equine welfare sector and highlighted the range of work being undertaken to improve equine welfare in the UK and beyond.The Strategic Goal Recognition Awards are an opportunity to celebrate achievement and share learning across the equine welfare sector, said NEWC Chair Carolyn Madgwick. We received an excellent range of nominations from individuals, teams and organisations demonstrating innovative and collaborative approaches to improving equine welfare.We would like to congratulate all of our winners and highly commended recipients, and thank everyone who submitted a nomination. Their work reflects the commitment and expertise that exists across the sector and supports our vision that Equines have improved welfare and a good life due to our members speaking with one voice.'The 2026 award winnersAmong the recipients were Jenna Goldby and Rachael Blackler of The Mare and Foal Sanctuary, who received the Advocacy and Policy Influence Award.Jenna and Rachael were recognised for leading the External Veterinary Project, which is helping improve welfare outcomes for more than 400 equines supported through The Mare and Foal Sanctuarys Sanctuary at Home scheme.By strengthening relationships between veterinary practices and welfare organisations, the project has improved communication, enhanced welfare-focused decision-making and created a model of partnership working with potential to benefit the wider sector.The Member Support and Standards Award went to the Association of British Riding Schools (ABRS) for its Future Schools Welfare Project.The project was recognised for its pioneering approach to embedding welfare-centred practices within riding schools. Working alongside Equitation Scientist Lisa Ashton, the project has empowered young people, riding schools and equestrian professionals to adopt evidence-based, compassionate approaches to horse care, handling and training.Rachel Rae Andrews of World Horse Welfare received the Collaboration and Sector Engagement Award. Rae Andrews was recognised for her exceptional commitment to equine welfare across North Wales. Supported by nominations from colleagues across multiple organisations, including the RSPCA, British Horse Society and North Wales Horse Watch, she was praised for her leadership, professionalism and collaborative approach.The Education and Best Practice Award went to Anna Gregory of Nottingham Trent University.Anna was honoured for almost 35 years of dedication to equine welfare. As Technical Team Leader at Brackenhurst Equestrian Centre, she has championed horse-centred management practices, improved welfare standards and inspired generations of equine professionals.Jen Wathan, Sophie Hill and Jackie Hickman of Brooke took home the Research and Evidence Award.The team was recognised for their leadership of the Compassionate Handling International Workshop and UK Harness Exchange, bringing together researchers, practitioners and welfare organisations from across the UK and internationally to share expertise and support welfare improvements for working equines worldwide.Lead image by ShutterstockHow to tell if a horse is happy: behaviourist reveals 13 key signsHow to provide a stabled horse with the three Fs (and why its so important that you do)Why are horses more prone to colic in the autumn? Vet answersDoes your horse really need to wear a rug when its wet? Equine vet advisesThe post Charity workers transforming lives of over 400 equines among recipients at national welfare awards appeared first on Your Horse.