ProYard Business Support

The ProYard support scheme is designed to support livery yard owners in the development and improvement of their businesses. The scheme is lead by Cheryl Johns, industry expert and consultant, who can help guide you through the ups and down of yard ownership and management.

Running a yard is no small task. Balancing the demands of business management, horse care, and people management can be challenging—and few yard owners feel confident in all three areas. That’s where ProYard comes in.

We offer affordable, one-to-one guidance that’s completely tailored to your yard, helping you navigate both the practical and administrative sides of running your business.

Whether you’re looking to strengthen your business sustainability, improve client management and documentation, or refine your day-to-day operations, ProYard provides the tools, knowledge, and support you need. You can choose to focus on a specific issue, develop your business for the long term, or simply get ongoing, ad-hoc advice whenever you need it.

Our support is open to everyone—from private yard owners to riding schools and equestrian centres. We also work with businesses, charities, and associations who want a deeper understanding of the livery industry and the needs of those within it. Together, we’ll identify areas for improvement, guide you through changes, and point you toward valuable resources to help your business grow.

These sessions are also a great opportunity to develop your skills, refine your ideas, and define your business direction. Sometimes, all it takes to make confident decisions is a bit of expert reassurance. Having someone who truly understands the equestrian world by your side can make all the difference—whether you’re starting a new yard, reshaping an existing one, or exploring the industry to better tailor your services.

While many “business mentors” offer general advice, few have deep, hands-on experience within the equestrian sector. With Cheryl’s extensive background, industry insight, and professional network, you’ll receive practical, relevant support designed to help you build a sustainable and successful business.

In addition to one-to-one guidance, we also host regular webinars—both independently and in collaboration with equestrian associations, charities, and businesses. These sessions cover every aspect of yard management, and recordings are available through our dedicated resource pages.

To join our free webinars or access recordings, be sure to follow LiveryList and stay up to date with the latest events and resources.

“Masterclass”

The Masterclass option offers a 45-minute one-to-one session via voice or video call, designed to provide focused guidance and practical problem-solving on any aspect of running a yard. Topics can include (but aren’t limited to) financial planning and costings, contracts, client management, or marketing strategies. Perfect for anyone looking to make changes, overcome challenges, or gain clarity before opening a new equestrian business, this session also includes follow-up support to help you put your plans into action.

The cost of a “Masterclass” session is £45
(£35 for ABRS Members and those with Premium LiveryList Listings)

Yard Manager Consultancy

The consultancy service offers flexible, tailored support—whether you need ongoing guidance or help with a specific challenge. This may include reviewing or developing business plans and documentation, advice on financial sustainability and costings, client management, or any other aspect of practical and administrative yard management. Support is available via calls or email, providing professional document reviews, practical advice, and proactive guidance to help you make effective changes or developments to your new or existing yard. Sessions are charged per 30 minutes.

Consultancy is charged at £50 per hour

Industry Consultancy

Do you provide products or services to the livery sector, or represent an association or organisation seeking a deeper understanding of this sector of the industry? Our consultancy can help by creating written content, supporting research and product development, and offering insight into all aspects of the livery industry—from day-to-day yard management to the needs of both providers and clients. We can help you understand challenges, responsibilities, and opportunities in the sector, with a proven track record of supporting businesses and organisations in this way.

Consultancy is charged at £50 per hour

“Livery Yard Owners UK:
Discussions & Advice” Group

Our popular Yard Owner Facebook Group is a friendly and supportive community of over 3,500 livery yard owners across the UK. Established in 2016, the group is a hub for discussions, advice, recommendations, news, and industry insights focused specifically on yard management. Members benefit from direct support from an industry-leading expert, alongside easy access to trusted resources and guidance from reputable equestrian sources.