News

The Professional Jockeys Association (PJA) has released a new digital handbook for its members. In conjunction, it has launched a brand new website, designed to complement the handbook and provide more detailed information for jockeys.

A printed copy of the Members Handbook will be sent to jockeys once the current Coronavirus crisis allows it to be produced, and PJA members will receive a second copy for their partner or parent. In the meantime, jockeys will be able to access a wide range of useful content relating to racing and the services provided by the PJA. As well as key information, jockeys are provided with useful tips and contact information for areas such as insurance, mental wellbeing, nutrition, regulatory matters and sponsorship.

The handbook is designed as a quick reference tool for jockeys and their families to understand the full range of support services on offer to them with a handy checklist for new members to ensure that they set themselves up properly as professional jockeys and are able to perform at their very best both on and off the track.

The new website (www.thepja.co.uk) has been designed to complement the information supplied in the handbook with an in-depth range of additional resources provided as links, films or document downloads. The new user-friendly navigation allows visitors to quickly access key information relating to PJA news, on-course services and the latest standings in all the Jockeys Championships, along with an in-depth Member Services section providing key resources in areas such as concussion management, disciplinary procedures, nutrition and legal matters.

Another new feature of the site is a ‘Live Chat’ function which will enable jockeys to directly contact the PJA team from the website. Jockeys will continue to receive E-newsletters from the PJA along with their WhatsApp messaging service, providing jockeys and their support teams with a full set of communication channels to contact the PJA and for the PJA to keep them updated and informed.

The project was led by Think Plus Ink who produced the creative and handbook and the website was built by DLZ Design. Both are small agencies based in the East Midlands who won the competitive tender and pitch process.

Commenting on the communications overhaul Paul Struthers, PJA Chief Executive, said:

“We appreciate that there are many different areas that jockeys need to keep on top of during their career and we hope that the new handbook and website will help make that process easier. We want to ensure jockeys are fully aware of all the ways in which the PJA team can support them and ensure they have all the relevant information at their fingertips.

“We hope that, by releasing the handbook during the Covid19 lockdown, jockeys and their families will have a good opportunity to read through the information and browse the website prior to the resumption of racing.”