GBGB expands funding available through its Injury Recovery Scheme (IRS) -PRESS RELEASE

Following a review of its Injury Recovery Scheme (IRS), the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) is pleased to announce that is increasing the levels of funding available to cover the treatment costs of career-ending injuries.  

Launched in 2018 as part of GBGB’s Greyhound Commitment, the IRS provides funding to help cover the costs of veterinary treatment for career-ending orthopaedic injuries. Since its launch, GBGB has paid out over £300,000 through the scheme.  

• Based on the success of the scheme and the number of applications received, the GBGB Board has agreed to increase the amount of funding available. The new levels of funding, which are available for applications received since 1^st June 2021, will help owners and trainers cover the costs of more expensive treatments: A grant of 50%, up to a maximum of £400 per greyhound, for any career-ending injury that requires remedial veterinary treatment; 

• A grant of 50%, up to a maximum of £1,000 per greyhound, for a career-ending hock injury that requires specialist surgery; 
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• A grant of 50%, up to a maximum of £2,000 per greyhound, for a career-ending long bone injury that requires specialist surgery.  

  Grants will be payable to the applicant upon completion of an IRS application form and the production of a fully paid veterinary invoice  Racecourses that currently provide their own injury recovery scheme may apply for IRS funding on behalf of their owner or trainer. 

  Duncan Gibson, GBGB Welfare and Integrity Services Manager, said: 

  “Whilst the current level of funding was sufficient for the majority of career-ending injuries, there are some injuries that require more intricate and expensive veterinary treatments. This increased funding will ensure more greyhounds receive the treatment they need so they can go on to enjoy their retirements.” 

  Mark Bird, GBGB Managing Director, said:  

  “We have been pleased with the impact of the IRS and know that further investment will go a long way to supporting trainers and owners cover the cost of more complex and costly veterinary procedures. The Board was therefore unanimous in its support to improve the level of IRS funding available.  

  “We know that with the right treatment and care, these greyhounds can go on to live long, happy and fulfilled lives as pets. We are hopeful that this increased funding will help further facilitate this outcome for more greyhounds.” 

  GBGB will continue its work into further reducing track injuries. In addition to its work with STRI, GBGB is in the process of recruiting a Track Liaison Officer who will work closely with GBGB-licensed stadia on track safety and maintenance. The Board is also looking to appoint a Non-Executive Veterinary Director who will undertake a comprehensive review into track injuries and identify initiatives to bring about long term, sustainable change.  

  IRS application forms can be downloaded from the GBGB website, www.gbgb.org.uk (welfare) or via the Trainers / Owners Portal. Alternatively, email [email protected]. 

  *Applications that qualify for additional funding but have been received and processed after 01 June 2021, will receive a balancing payment. No additional application is required and GBGB will confirm the additional amount with the applicant.