Challenging Anti Gay (homophobic) Abuse and Behaviour

Guidance for
Rugby League Clubs
Challenging Anti Gay (homophobic)
Abuse and Behaviour
contents
Contents
Foreword by Richard Lewis - RFL Chairman 5
Foreword by Lou Englefield - Pride Sports5
Introduction
1.1 Homophobia in sport
6
1.2 Rugby League experiences of homophobia 6
1.3 Coming ‘out’
7
1.4 Diversity within the LGB communities
7
Club environment
2.1 What is homophobic language?
8
2.2 Who is subject to homophobic language and abuse? 8
2.3Benefits to the club that actively challenges homophobic
language or behaviour
2.4 Responding to homophobic language
8
9
2.5 Flowchart summary of possible responses 10
2.6 Prevention
13
2.7 It’s the law!
14
2.8 Community Clubs
14
2.9Top ten recommendations for tackling homophobia
in the club environment
15
Matchday environment
3.1 What is homophobic language?
16
3.2 Why is it a problem?
16
3.3 Who is subject to homophobic language and abuse?
16
3.4 Potential impact of homophobic abuse or behaviour
17
3.5 How can I respond? - Community Game
17
3.6 How can I respond? - Professional Game
18
3.7 Responding to homophobic language or abuse
20
3.8 Prevention
21
3.9 It’s the law!
21
3.10Top ten recommendations for tackling homophobia
on matchdays
22
RFL incident report form23
Contents
3
foreword
Foreword by Richard Lewis
115 YEARS OF INCLUSIVITY
The sport of Rugby League has, throughout its 115 year history, sought to be
as inclusive as possible and it is that spirit that has led to the compilation of this
comprehensive Challenging Homophobia guidance for clubs.
We have a proud history of welcoming people from different backgrounds and
cultures into the Rugby League family and this is demonstrated by our stance
on issues such as Lesbian Gay Bisexual (LGB) equality. Rugby League is a true
pioneer within UK sport in this respect.
The RFL, for example, is the only sporting NGB to have signed up to the Stonewall Diversity Champions
programme, has set up the Rainbow Forum, an LGBT network open to LGBT (and their straight allies) RFL staff,
players, coaches match officials, club staff and volunteers and has supported clubs over the past three years to
take part in a range of pride events.
Indeed Stonewall, together with Pride Sports and Ground Safety Officers, have been instrumental in helping us
to compile the recommendations herein.
Discrimination and prejudice, whether on grounds of sexual orientation, religion, gender, ethnicity, disability or
age, have no part to play in our sport and run directly against everything that the RFL stands for. This document
clearly lays out practical guidance that will assist our clubs in encouraging LGB inclusivity and tackling
homophobia.
This is the first in a series of reports that the RFL intends to produce to support our clubs and ensure that our
sport remains welcoming to all. It forms part of a wider range of innovative anti-discriminatory initiatives and
programmes that we deliver at every level of the game.
Richard Lewis
RFL Chairman
Foreword by Lou Englefield
Although there have been significant improvements in the lives of lesbian, gay and
bisexual people in the UK in recent years, sport remains an environment in which
homophobia persists on a daily basis; on playing fields, in changing rooms, and
in office environments. This guide is only one part of the highly innovative work
RFL are undertaking to challenge all forms of discrimination and to champion the
campaign against homophobia in sport. We, at Pride Sports, are delighted to have
been consulted during the development of the guide. Its step by step approach
means that all those involved in the delivery of the game; from administrators
to coaches and players, will be able to identify homophobia when it occurs and
challenge it positively, both in the club environment and on match days.
Lou Englefield
Pride Sports
Foreword
5
1.1 Introduction
This guidance document, focusing on challenging anti gay or homophobic abuse and
behaviour, is the first of several such documents that the RFL intend to produce. Although
the principles contained within this document could be applied to any form of abuse such
as racism or sexism, additional information justify individual guidance documents.
Homophobia - Hatred, intolerance, and fear of lesbian,
gay and bisexual people and their culture which can be
expressed in many forms. It can be ‘casual’ use of the
term ‘gay’ and homophobic comments dismissed as ‘just
banter’ to homophobic chanting and homophobic attacks
on gay individuals.
also characterise gay men as ‘weak’ and ‘effeminate’
and therefore not ‘strong enough’ to be rugby players.
Meanwhile women who play sports, particularly contact
sports such as Rugby League, are often not seen to be
feminine enough or ‘proper women’ and therefore ‘must
be lesbians’.
RUGBY LEAGUE HAS A ZERO TOLERANCE STANCE TO
HOMOPHOBIA
An International campaign was launched on International
Day against Homophobia (IDAHO) May 18th 2010 on
entitled ‘Speaking about Silence - homophobia in the
sport world’.
HOMOPHOBIA IS NEVER ACCEPTABLE OR EXCUSABLE
DOING NOTHING IS NOT AN OPTION
Below is the IDAHO declaration against any form of
discrimination in the sports world.
SEE IT, HEAR IT, REPORT IT!
“No form of discrimination is welcome in the sports world.”
HOMOPHOBIA IN SPORT
Homophobia in sport remains largely unchallenged. This
can be seen in the almost total absence of ‘out’ gay sports
people. So great is the fear of homophobic reactions from
the press, fans on the terraces and sponsors that very
few sports people are willing to take the personal and
professional risk to ‘come out’ (be open about being gay)
whilst playing sport professionally. This absence of visible
gay professional sports people contributes to a number of
stereotypes about gay people in sport. The most common
stereotype is that gay men do not play sport. Stereotypes
Being an athlete is not only about reaching higher and
higher physically.
It’s also about the values of justice, equality, team unity,
respect, and dignity.
Plus, it’s fighting any form of discrimination, including
discrimination based on sexual orientation.
That’s why I lend my support to the International Day
Against Homophobia.
1.2 Rugby League Experiences of Homophobia
There are gay rugby league players, both retired and
currently playing. As long ago as 1995 Ian Roberts,
an Australian Rugby League player of international
renown came out as gay at the height of his career. His
autobiography points to both the level of homophobic
abuse he received and the overwhelmingly powerful impact
his coming out had on young gay people, particularly
those in sport. Despite the fact that Ian made the personal
decision to come out, it did not lead to increasing numbers
of rugby players to come out publicly, although privately
some were out to their immediate peers, family and
colleagues. In 2009 a number of high profile sportsmen
made the decision to come out: RFU referee, Nigel Owens;
Irish Hurler, Donal Og Cusack; and, in December 2009,
Welsh international Rugby Union player; Gareth Thomas a
came out and then a few short weeks later crossed code to
play for Crusaders Rugby League team.
6
Introduction
Whilst playing for Crusaders at Castleford Tigers, Gareth
Thomas was subjected to homophobic abuse by a section
of the crowd. At the subsequent tribunal Castleford were
found guilty of unacceptable behaviour, of breaching the
RFL’s Respect Policy, of misconduct by their supporters
and of conduct prejudicial to the interests of the sport and
fined £40,000. The tribunal, chaired by his Honour Judge
Rodney Grant, criticised the club for failing to take steps
to stop the homophobic chanting, for failing to identify
the perpetrators, for failing to challenge the chanting
and for their failure to undertake a meaningful inquiry
afterwards. On appeal the fine was halved in recognition
of the fact that the club had now identified and banned the
perpetrators and had embarked on a community project to
challenge homophobia.
Rugby League recognises that homophobia exists in
wider society and that we must take our responsibility to
challenge homophobia seriously. This guide is one of a
range of initiatives and guidance that Rugby League has
introduced to ensure our sport is welcoming and inclusive
for all. Homophobia hurts everyone involved in our sport.
Taking steps to reduce homophobia in sport is not only
consistent with Rugby League’s efforts to foster a safe and
welcoming environment in our sport, but also mirrors our
core values: inclusive, accepting, uncompromising and
family game.
This guide has been produced by RFL with support from
Stonewall and Pride Sports in order to clarify what we
mean by anti gay abuse and behaviour (homophobia),
something many people find confusing. The guide also
offers practical suggestions as to possible actions to
any incidents both at a club level and during match
days, as well as strategies to prevent future incidents.
It is anticipated that this practical guide will ensure a
consistent approach across our game and demonstrate
our commitment to tackling homophobia. We hope it will
help create a club and wider game environment that is
free from fear of discrimination and bullying. Challenging
homophobic language doesn’t have to be time-consuming
or difficult. Our aim however is that Rugby League isn’t
just better at responding to homophobic incidents but
that we can prevent them occurring in the first place.
By creating an inclusive club culture where everyone
understands the importance of tackling homophobia
and feel confident in doing so together we can stop it
happening in the first place.
introduction
The RFL has a long standing commitment to playing an
active role in engaging with all communities and RFL has
undertaken to tackle homophobia effectively.
1.3 Coming Out
This is the process by which LGB people tell others about
their sexuality. Coming out is not necessarily a one-offevent, lesbians, gay men and bisexual people may have
to come out many times over their lives. LGB people
may feel comfortable being out to some people and in
some situations but not with others due to fears about
the potential for negative reactions from others. Feeling
unable or unwilling to reveal their sexual orientation can be
very stressful and has a potentially significant impact on a
person’s mental health. In everyday social situations such
as discussions about what someone did at the weekend
they will face the choice of having to create a fictitious
heterosexual life, or avoid using personal pronouns such
as he/ she and first names that indicate their partner’s,
or parents gender. Photographs of family members and
inviting their same sex partners or parents to club social
events or matches are fraught with difficulties when an
individual is not ‘out’. LGB people should not be under
pressure to ‘come out’ as it is a very personal decision
however rugby league can help by ensuring that the
culture and environment is inclusive so that LGB people
are reassured that in this aspect of their lives they would
be supported and welcomed if they chose to be ‘out’.
1.4 Diversity within LGB communities
It is important to recognise that within the LGB
communities there is a great deal of diversity of experience
depending, for example, on an individual’s gender, race,
age, disability, faith or socio economic background.
When working to increase and encourage LGB
participation or to challenge any abuse or discrimination
we need to be aware that people may face multiple layers
of discrimination or disadvantage.
Coming out
7
2.0 Club Environment
2.1 What is Homophobic Language?
‘poof’
‘lezzer’ ‘gay boy’
‘batty
boy’
Gay people can often be the target of abuse or violence,
whether or not it uses explicit homophobic language such
as ‘faggot’ or ‘dyke’. This type of explicit homophobic
abuse is a common occurrence in many people’s lives.
More common however is the abuse that uses the words
‘gay’ or ‘lesbian’ or other phrases associated with gay
people to imply something negative or inferior. Phrases
such as ‘you’re such a lezzer!’ or ‘those trainers are gay!’,
‘that was a gay pass’, ‘you play like a poof’, ‘get up off
the floor you faggot’ for example, may be used to insult
someone or something, but without referring to actual
or perceived sexual orientation. This language is often
dismissed as ‘harmless banter’ and not thought by some
to be particularly hurtful if the intent is not a comment on
‘you’re
so gay’
‘queer’
‘faggot’
‘dyke’
someone’s actual or perceived sexual orientation.
Regardless of the lack of any deliberate intent, these terms
liken being gay to something that’s bad, wrong or inferior.
This constant association of being gay with being inferior
or negative is wrong as it creates a hostile environment for
lesbian, gay and bisexual people as well as their friends
and families.
‘Casual’ use of homophobic language tends to be used
without thinking and is often ignored by club staff because
either they feel it is difficult to know how to respond or
they believe the language is used without any homophobic
intent. As a comparison, imagine or remember people’s
attitudes to challenging racism in Britain in the 1970s.
2.2 Who is Subject to Homophobic Language & Abuse?
It is not exclusively gay people who experience
homophobic name-calling or harassment. Homophobic
bullying can affect any individual at any point in their
involvement with a rugby club; from under 10’s to open
age, to club staff, volunteers and management. Those
at greatest risk of homophobic bullying in the club
environment are:
•Girls / women for behaving / acting ‘like boys / men’
•People who are thought to be lesbian, gay or bisexual
•Vulnerable individuals who are routinely the subject of
bullying and name calling
•Girls / women who do play sports, especially a contact
sport like rugby league
•People who have gay parents / carers or gay children
and other family members
•People who are openly lesbian, gay or bisexual
•Boys / men not as ‘tough’ as expected in a sport like
rugby league
2.3 Benefits to the Club that Actively Challenges Homophobia?
Addressing homophobia has important benefits for clubs
and everyone involved in our sport:
•By actively reaching out to LGB communities it is an
opportunity to increase the talent pool in all areas of
club life - you may even discover some untapped talent
•Clubs that demonstrate their commitment to equality
and diversity and evidence efforts made to challenge
homophobia maybe more likely to attract funding,
grants and sponsorship
•Clubs that live up to their duty to safeguard the
wellbeing of all young people in their care and by
responding appropriately to homophobic bullying help
create a positive environment for all
8
What is homophobic language
•By complying with Equality legislation and challenging
homophobia and discrimination, the club will reduce the
risk of expensive tribunals and damage to club reputation
•It promotes inclusiveness, acceptance and diversity essential ingredients to strong and cohesive teams.
•It eliminates stereotypes and reduces fear and
ignorance, thus enriching the learning environment that
sport can offer.
•It improves the situation of lesbian and gay young
people who are at greater risk of isolation and bullying
than their heterosexual counterparts.
•It creates a safer environment that enhances the social
and psychological well-being of all participants, and
paves the way for a future generation of sport leaders,
athletes and coaches who are accepting of minorities
and respect and value differences.
•Increased reputation of club if it is known to have a
welcoming and inclusive culture
•LGB people will feel safe to be themselves and
therefore more likely to reach their full potential and
remain loyal to the club
•It’s the right thing to do!
•Positive, inclusive and welcoming club culture leads
to increased satisfaction among club members and
is more likely to be a club of choice in an increasingly
competitive market
club environment
•It removes barriers to participation in sport and makes
sport a more welcoming place for girls and women,
many of whom may stay away from sport out of fear
they will be labeled as lesbians.
2.4 Responding to Homophobic Language
In the same way that racist language is challenged, club
staff and coaches should feel confident to respond to
homophobic language whenever it happens. Responding
is not just about sanction and censure, equally important
is recognising the importance and value of education,
particularly when young people use homophobic language
or behaviour.
RESPECT sets out the code of conduct we expect
throughout our game and makes it clear that Rugby
League prides itself on being a family sport that is
welcoming and inclusive. Where behaviours fail to meet
our high standards Rugby league has made a commitment
to tackle it effectively.
From the 2011 season RFL Tackle It! campaign will be
re- launched and expanded from just tackling racism to
tackling all abusive language and behaviours, including
homophobia. A range of innovative developments will
be introduced to ensure that the message is widely
understood and that together we can ensure that Rugby
League maintains its proud heritage of being a welcoming
and inclusive sport.
KEY CONSIDERATIONS WHEN RESPONDING
TO HOMOPHOBIC LANGUAGE OR BEHAVIOUR
•Be consistent in your response
•Challenge the comment rather than the individual
instead of saying “You are so homophobic!” a better
option would be “your language makes me feel
uncomfortable or is upsetting”.
•Use your judgement to decide whether or not the
language or behaviour should be challenged at the
point of the comment or at a later date
•Respond calmly and ensure that the situation does not
escalate especially if others join in the discussions
•Where possible explain why a comment is
unacceptable rather than just saying don’t say that
SOME POSSIBLE RESPONSES TO HOMOPHOBIC
COMMENTS OR BEHAVIOURS
“The word gay should not be casually used as a negative
comment; it’s hurtful to people who are gay and to young
people whose parents and carers, family members, or
friends are gay”
“Homophobia won’t be tolerated in this club we have a
zero tolerance policy”
“Homophobic language and behaviour goes against the
RESPECT code of conduct”
“We don’t tolerate racism in the club so why would we
tolerate homophobia”
“It doesn’t matter what you intended - using homophobic
language creates a hostile and unpleasant environment for
people at the club”
“It’s not just harmless banter when what you say offends
or upsets people”
“It is important for a successful and strong team that
everyone is treated with respect”
“There are young people at our club and as adults we
need to set a good example”
SANCTIONS AND EDUCATION
It is important to discuss any incidents fully and where
appropriate take advice from club and or RFL compliance
team regarding possible responses. It is vital that all
incidents are recorded and the information stored securely
- maintaining data protection and confidentiality. Records
should include dates, times, places and people involved
and any actions taken and outcomes. Information,
education and training may be the most appropriate
response depending on nature of incident or if this is a first
time incident. For repeat or serious incidents sanctions
may be the most appropriate response.
Responding to homophobic language
9
2.5 Flowchart
This flowchart is intended as a guidance it is important
that you use your judgement, skills and knowledge of the
people involved to determine the most appropriate way
to respond to the situation. Homophobic language and
behaviour should never be tolerated. Depending on gravity
of situation incidents should also be reported to RFL
compliance department who will be able to offer advice
and information.
YOUNG PERSON / CHILD
Young person or child at the club makes a
homophobic remark such as ‘that’s a gay pass’,
or ‘she must be a lezzer.’
NO
Does the club have an explicit policy stating
that homophobic language is unacceptable?
Volunteers /Staff can intervene more effectively and
with greater confidence to homophobic language
if it is part of the club policy and procedures. Ask
RFL Equality and Diversity Manager for the RFL
Equity Policy template and refer to the RFL anti
bullying policy.
YES
Tell the individual in a way that they understand
(age appropriate) that homophobic language is not
acceptable at the club and is against club policies.
Explain that it is offensive and that its impact on
others is the most important consideration. It does
not matter if you didn’t ‘intend it like that’ and
cannot be justified as banter or just a joke.
YES
There may be some lapses and you may have
to say it again until people get the message. By
being consistent members of the club will begin
to understand that homophobic language is
unacceptable and it stops.
YES
Culture of the club is changing. In the same way
members understand that racism is unacceptable
they also begin to understand that homophobia is
also unacceptable.
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS.
Does the person understand?
NO
Young person / child continues to make
comments and others join in. Explain in more
detail the effect of homophobia and homophobic
language has on people and that just like racist
language homophobic language will not be
tolerated at the club. If the young person is
at secondary school you may like to consider
showing some of the Stonewall FITT DVD .
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS.
Does the person understand?
Has the homophobic language stopped?
NO
10
Flowchart for club environment
NO
Take the person to one side and talk to them
in more detail about why it is offensive. If you
need more support in responding contact either
Equality and Diversity Manager or Stonewall.
YES
It takes time to educate people that homophobic
bullying and language is unacceptable especially
if they have not been challenged in the past at
school or at the club. Individuals at the club who
have experienced homophobic bullying in the past
will be more confident discussing or reporting
any incidents if the club is seen to tackle such
incidents effectively.
YES
YOUNG PERSON - Involving CWO or others
in position of authority in the club in tackling
homophobia sends a strong message that this
behavior and language will not be tolerated at the
club.
YES
YOUNG PERSON Parents / carers support club in
educating young person
YES
YOUNG PERSON - Club and parents / carers work
together to challenge homophobia and create a
welcoming environment for all. Club seen as model
of good practice by all
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS.
Does it stop?
club environment
FLOWCHART CONTINUED…
NO
CHILD / YOUNG PERSON - Involve Parents and
CWO or other club members, senior players or
those in a position of authority. Explain in an age
appropriate way that the club will use sanctions if
they continue to use homophobic language.
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS.
Does it stop?
NO
YOUNG PERSON - invite parents or carers to
discuss the attitude of the young person and that
the club has a zero tolerance for homophobic
language and behavior. May consider signing a
behavior contract.
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS.
Does it stop?
NO
YOUNG PERSON: Explain to parents /carers
why the anti homophobia policy is important and
is part of the club anti bullying policy. Explain
everyone should feel safe at the club. Reiterate
the club RESPECT and Tackle It policies. Explain
that continues incidents may lead to expulsion
from the club.
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS.
Does it stop?
NO
parents fail to support club
YOUNG PERSON - A formal response from club
is required with possible temporary or permanent
suspension from the club. Letter explaining the
club decision sent to young person and parents.
General letter to other members / parents
reiterating the club commitment to creating a
welcoming environment and safe space for all.
And that homophobia will not be tolerated.
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS
Flowchart for club environment
11
ADULT MEMBER OF STAFF / CLUB VOLUNTEER
As adults they are expected to be role models for children
and young people at the club and play a vital role in
creating a welcoming and inclusive club for all. If an adult
member of staff, volunteer or parent is heard or seen using
homophobic language or behavior or failing to challenge
ADULT MEMBER OF STAFF / CLUB
VOLUNTEER - If the individual is employed
by club or a volunteer and the incident is
judged to be less serious the club might like
to consider arranging an informal meeting with
their line manager to explain that their conduct
is not acceptable and / or a recommendation to
undertake an appropriate training course.
YES
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS.
Has this resulted in a change in behaviour? You
may wish to seek advice from the RFL Equality
and Diversity Manager, Stonewall or Pride Sports.
homophobic comments from children and young people
then sanctions, within the framework of the clubs HR and
anti bullying policies, should be applied by the relevant
member of staff.
ADULT - Involving manager in the club in tackling
homophobia sends a strong message throughout
the club that this behavior and language will not
be tolerated at the club. By sending individual
on a training course recognizes importance of
education in changing behaviours and the club
commitment to creating an inclusive environment.
NO
ADULT MEMBER OF STAFF / CLUB
VOLUNTEER - If the incident is judged to be of a
more serious nature or a repeated incident despite
previous informal warnings and / or training then
the club should refer to their disciplinary policy
in order to determine appropriate actions. These
may include verbal warning, written warning,
or dismissal.
YES
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS.
Does it stop?
ADULT - Culture of the club is changing. In the
same way members understand that racism is
unacceptable they also begin to understand that
homophobia is also unacceptable.
NO
PARENT - If a parent is overheard using
homophobic language or behaviour at the club then
club staff or volunteers should tell the parent that
this is unacceptable language, that is contravenes
the RESPECT code, is against the spirit of the
game and may be against the law!
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS.
Has the parent stopped?
NO
If the parent continues explain that the club has
a zero tolerance attitude towards homophobia
and that as adults it is everyone’s responsibility
to create a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Homophobia has no place at the club. Warn that
if he / she continues he / she may be barred from
the club for a fixed term of permanently.
12
Flowchart for club environment
YES
In this section there are a number of suggested strategies
for cultivating an inclusive welcoming environment that
discourages homophobic abuse and language. Clubs
should decide which strategies might be more effective in
their particular club environment. Generally suggestions
at the top of the list would be appropriate for all clubs
both professional and community, further down the list
community clubs may choose to take on some of the
suggestions if they have the capacity to undertake them.
CLUB MANAGEMENT MEETINGS
Careful consideration must be given to ensuring all
suggestions are age appropriate.
TRAINING AND INFORMATION FOR CLUBS
Some of the ideas may be suitable for young people
and adults but would not necessarily be appropriate for
younger children.
AVOID THE ASSUMPTION THAT EVERYONE IS
HETEROSEXUAL
Accept the reality that lesbian, gay and bisexual people
are involved in all aspects of our sport as; players, parents,
coaches, staff or volunteers. Some will be open about their
sexuality, others are not either because they choose not
to reveal their sexuality or because they fear homophobic
reactions if they ‘come out’.
SUPPORTING LGB CLUB MEMBER
If someone ‘comes out’ to you do not share that
information with other members without the expressed
permission of that individual. Ask if they need any
additional support don’t assume their sexual orientation
will always be a problem. Provide information about the
Rainbow Forum. Don’t assume they will want to champion
gay equality and challenging homophobia. It is not the
sole responsibility of gay members to educate others, it is
everyone’s responsibility.
POSTERS AND DISPLAYS
Use posters or displays to communicate to fans,
employees and those using the club positive messages
on equality for lesbian, gay and bisexual people, such as
Stonewall’s ‘Some People Are Gay Get Over It!’ poster
campaign or Pride Sports LGB Inclusion poster set
(available from November 2010). Also make use of RFL
posters such as RESPECT, anti bullying, Equity Statement
and new Tackle It! suite of posters available for 2011.
Ensure that Equality and Diversity is always included as an
agenda item and use as an opportunity to discuss what
the club has done and is planning to do regarding creating
an inclusive and welcoming environment and increasing
participation among underrepresented communities. The
Equality and Diversity template is also a requirement of
clubmark gold.
club environment
2.6 Prevention
As part of Clubmark one employee or volunteer must
attend Club for All, a training course about equity
and diversity in sport. Make sure the information is
disseminated to the rest of the club and does not just
sit gathering dust! Attend the annual RFL Equality and
Diversity conference. Access RFL website; Equality and
Diversity section for a range of information, fact sheets,
and links to useful organisation websites that will assist in
engaging with LGB communities.
IMPROVING REPORTING
If you want to find out what people at your club think and
their experiences conduct an anonymous survey and ask
them, among other things if they have ever been or seen
anyone bullied and /or levels of homophobic bullying at
the club. Bullying letter boxes can also be useful so young
people can anonymously inform adults about behaviour
which concern them. Ensure that there is information
about who to contact i.e. the Club Welfare Officer if
anyone needs support or wishes to report homophobic or
other forms of bullying.
INVOLVE YOUNG PEOPLE
Young people want their clubs to be diverse and
welcoming places. Involve them in initiatives to promote
equality and diversity that include tackling homophobic
language and bullying.
If young people are of an appropriate age (secondary
school and above) clubs could ask them to come up
with some anti bullying information for club notice board,
website or newsletter that include homophobia. Consider
inviting young people from local lesbian, gay and bisexual
youth groups to participate.
If you would like support to set up a club Youth Forum
contact Colette Eden, RFL Safeguarding Manager
Colette.eden@rfl.uk.com or telephone 0113 2375046.
RAINBOW FORUM
Make sure that information about the Rainbow Forum
is displayed at your club. The Rainbow Forum is a
confidential support network for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual
and Transgender people involved in Rugby League;
players, coaches, match officials club staff and volunteers.
Putting up information about the Forum helps show that
there are LGB people involved in Rugby League and that
your club welcomes their involvement in the sport.
MONITORING SEXUAL ORIENTATION (ADULTS)
Initially this will enable you to know whether or not your
club has any LGB members and then to measure the
impact of initiatives that your club implements.
Contact RFL Equality and Diversity Manager;
sarah.williams@rfl.uk.com or telephone 0113 2375037
if you want support to develop a monitoring strategy.
Prevention
13
EQUITY OFFICER
ROLE MODELS / AMBASSADORS
Ensure person appointed to this role attends Club for All or
Equity in Your Coaching course so that they are confident
regarding their role and area of responsibility. The officer
should then disseminate the training to the rest of the
club, i.e. run a thirty minute briefing at before or after club
meeting or training. Equity officer should also liaise with
GSO or Touch Line Manager on match days to ensure that
they have been fully briefed.
Use local LGB role models / ambassadors to talk to
club staff and young people and help club challenge
homophobia. Use the opportunity to discuss the positive
impact Ian Roberts and Gareth Thomas have had
since coming out. Gareth has been involved in various
TV programmes about the importance of challenging
homophobia in sport. Every February is LGB history month
it may be an opportunity to work with other organisations
in your area to raise profile of LGB role models both in
sport and other fields.
STONEWALL FIT DVD
A DVD devised by Stonewall for young people in
secondary schools and colleges, although complete film is
an hour and a half the DVD has been devised in individual
sections featuring one of the characters, two of the
sections feature young people involved in sport and may
be suitable to use at club level.
GET INVOLVED WITH YOUR LOCAL
LGB COMMUNITY
Stonewall, Pride Sports and RFL Equality and Diversity
manager can assist with identifying local LGB groups and
events and providing further support and resources to
support such initiatives. LGB History Month takes place
every year in February. Find out what your club can do to
take part.
FIND OUT WHAT LGB PEOPLE THINK
Invite groups of LGB people to talk about their perception
and experiences of sport and rugby league specifically,
what are the barriers that stop these communities
accessing the sport? Then invite them to attend a
match. Follow up with another session to talk about their
experiences at the match - did the reality match up to
their perceptions? Then run a skills / touch rugby session
for participants. Follow up with action plan. Contact RFL
Equality and Diversity Manager for a guide to conducting
this type of research. Disseminate leaning from any
research to the wider game and clubs.
2.7 It’s the law!
It has been unlawful for employers to discriminate against
employees on the grounds of their sexual orientation
since 2003. Bullying and harassment, including violating
the dignity of a person or creating an intimidating, hostile,
degrading, humiliating or offensive environment, is also
unlawful. Many incidents of homophobic behaviour or
language taking place in a workplace could constitute
bullying and harassment and leave organisations open
to claims against them. An organisation can be held
responsible for the actions of their staff as well as their
staff being individually responsible.
2.8 Community clubs
Many of the suggestions and recommendations contained
within this guidance are suitable for both professional
and community clubs however it is acknowledged that
community clubs, who are dependent on volunteers may
not have the capacity or resources to undertake the more
14
It’s the law!
ambitious recommendations. Community clubs that are
working towards Clubmark Gold may find some of the
suggestions useful when planning and completing their
equality action plans.
1
CLUB STAFF OR VOLUNTEERS MUST CHALLENGE HOMOPHOBIC LANGUAGE EVERY
TIME THEY HEAR IT
Language such as ‘lezzer’ and ‘gay boy’, as well as ‘gay’ as a term of disapproval of someone or something,
must be challenged in each and every instance to send the message that homophobic language is
unacceptable.
2
club environment
2.9 Top ten recommendations for tackling homophobia
in the club environment
MAKE SURE THAT EVERYONE AT THE CLUB UNDERSTANDS WHY HOMOPHOBIC
LANGUAGE IS OFFENSIVE
People will be less likely to use homophobic language when, like racist language, they understand the
implications of what they say.
3
INCLUDE HOMOPHOBIC LANGUAGE IN ANTI-BULLYING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
4
INVOLVE CLUB COACHES / RESPECTED PLAYERS AND/ OR RFL IF HOMOPHOBIC
LANGUAGE PERSISTS
Club staff are able to challenge homophobic language more effectively when it is included in club policies.
The involvement of club management, respected player or RFL proactively as well as in response to the use
of homophobic language sends a strong anti-homophobia message to the club.
5
INVOLVE PARENTS / CARER IF YOUNG PEOPLE PERSIST
6
INVOLVE YOUNG PEOPLE
7
USE POSTERS AND PUBLIC DISPLAYS
8
PROMOTE RAINBOW FORUM - LGB NETWORK
9
MAKE USE OF THE RESOURCES AND EXPERTISE AVAILABLE
10
It is important for parents / carer to help ensure that all CLUB policies are upheld. All young people deserve
to feel safe at their club. Whatever their attitudes towards lesbian, gay and bisexual people, parents / carer
can play an essential role in ensuring young people are protected from homophobic bullying. All parents /
carer would agree that bullying is wrong.
Young people want their clubs to be safe and welcoming places. Use anonymous questionnaires to ask
about young peoples experiences of homophobic language and bullying in their club and involve them in
initiatives to tackle any problems identified. Establish links with LGB young people.
Poster and public display campaigns can be used to communicate positive messages regarding lesbian,
gay and bisexual people and to tackle homophobic language and bullying.
Ensure that everyone at the club is aware of the Rainbow Forum; a support network for LGB RFL staff,
players, coaches, match officials club staff and volunteers. Display information at the club and on the
website.
Information, support and resources can be accessed from a range of sources; the RFL Equality and Diversity
Manager, Stonewall, Pride Sports, EGLSF and local LGB groups and organisations and individuals.
RECORD ALL INCIDENTS, ACTIONS AND SANCTIONS AND OUTCOMES
Accurate records allow you to identify issues and monitor the impact of interventions.
Top 10 recommendations for tackling homophobia in the club environment
15
3.0 Matchday Environment
3.1 What is Homophobic Language?
‘poof’
‘lezzer’ ‘gay boy’
‘batty
boy’
‘you’re
so gay’
‘queer’
‘faggot’
‘dyke’
It is more likely that in a match situation, the range of
homophobic language may be more extreme and include
additional terms which may cause even greater offence.
I didn’t mean it like that. When the club staff and stewards
encounter homophobic language they must respond
immediately to challenge or prevent further abuse.
Homophobic language means terms of abuse that are
often used towards lesbian, gay and bisexual people, or
those thought to be LGB.
However, homophobic language is also often used to refer
to something or someone as inferior. Homophobic abuse
can never be dismissed as ‘it was just harmless banter or
Even if the club staff or stewards are unclear whether
or not the language used is homophobic this should
not prevent any action being taken as any language
or behaviour that causes offence or upset can also be
challenged under the Rugby League RESPECT code
of conduct.
3.2 Why is it a problem?
RFL have a zero tolerance policy towards unacceptable
behaviours which specifically includes homophobic
abuse. It is stated specifically within our Operational
Rule D1: Offences, Penalties and Enquiries (O) “apply
Zero Tolerance to any that do engage in Unacceptable
Behaviour and shall comply with the guidelines issues
from time to time by the RFL.”
Homophobia contravenes the spirit of our game values;
passionate, inclusive, uncompromising family game
Homophobia contravenes RESPECT code of conduct
which specifically includes respect the rights dignity and
worth of lesbian gay and bisexual people.
Homophobia brings our game into disrepute Rugby
League is proud of its long history of being a welcoming
and inclusive sport and homophobia is therefore
unacceptable.
As homophobic incidents pose a significant risk to match
day health and safety, responding effectively is therefore
covered in the Green Guide Regulations.
Failure to respond effectively to homophobia places the
club at risk of tribunal and potentially damaging fines as
well as damage to the reputation of the club.
3.3 Who is subject to homophobic abuse / bullying?
Any player, spectator, match official or other match staff
can be targeted with homophobic name calling and this
is unacceptable. It is not exclusively gay players who
experience homophobic name-calling or harassment.
Homophobic abuse may be directed at any players or
team as a response to negative or poor play in a game.
Homophobic abuse can be directed at a player from
the opposing team / match official that is not liked or at
players where there is a belief they are gay even if there is
no evidence of this. It can also be directed specifically at
‘out’ gay players.
16
What is homophobic language?
Within sport an ‘out’ gay player is a rarity because of the
fear of homophobic abuse and a potentially negative effect
on their careers. However the UK now has an out gay
player in one of our Super League teams and as such he
is more likely to be a target for homophobic abuse from
away fans particularly if his team is winning.
ON INDIVIDUALS
ON THE CLUB
When homophobic behaviour and language go
unchallenged, a culture of homophobia is created and can
impact on individuals sense of belonging, self-esteem and
enjoyment of playing sport at the club. Where there is a
crowd chanting homophobic abuse at a match aimed at
one individual the effects may be devastating personally,
could threaten their personal safety and make it less likely
that they will be able to perform to the best of their ability.
It will also have the effect of making it far less likely that
any other gay players will feel safe to be ‘out’.
You may lose talented people if the culture of the club
and fans are not welcoming and inclusive. There is the
significant risk to the club both in damage to reputation,
financial and other sanctions if the club is found not to
have taken sufficient steps to prevent or respond to any
homophobic abuse on a match day. Ultimately the Match
Commissioner has the power and authority to stop a
match if he or she feels that the crowd behavior poses a
significant risk to safety.
Members of the crowd who hear these comments may feel
threatened, intimidated or offended by homophobic language
and behaviour which may result in lost revenue to the club
should they decide not to return. However homophobic
incidents that are responded to appropriately and effectively
will increase spectator confidence in the club.
ON THE WIDER GAME
matchday environment
3.4 Potential impact of homophobic abuse or behaviour
Damage to the reputation of the game as being a family
game that is inclusive and welcoming.
3.5 How can I respond? - Community Game
PREPARATION:
REPORTING HOMOPHOBIC LANGUAGE:
1. Educate and inform club members and players that
the club has a zero tolerance to homophobia including
the `causal’ use of the term gay to refer to anything
negative.
If the incident occurs on the field of play between players
the match official is responsible for dealing with the
situation at the time. If the comment / behaviour is not
heard by the referee then others can report to your team
touchline manager who may be able to respond, if not he/
she can inform the committee.
2.Time - this change in use of homophobic language will
not happen overnight as for many young people the
casual use of gay is endemic in their everyday language
in schools and socially
3.Make visiting clubs aware of your commitment to a
zero tolerance approach to homophobic language by,
for example, displaying relevant RFL posters
If incident occurs off the pitch i.e. parent , spectator it
is the responsibility of the team touch line manager to
address the situation, if it is a member of the away team
report to their touch line manager
ACTIONS:
FACTORS TO TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION:
When homophobic language or behaviour occurs the most
important thing is to take action - consider these factors
when deciding what action would be most appropriate for
the situation.
1.Who is the perpetrator? - is it a child, adult club staff or
volunteer, parent from your club or from the away team.
2. Seriousness of language / behaviour - could range
from casual use of term gay to more offensive terms,
also is this a one off event or a pattern of unacceptable
behaviour by an individual.
3. Intent of the person - talk to the person involved and
find out why they used that term / behaviour is it a lack
of knowledge or is this a case of using homophobic
terms to bully or intimidate individuals.
Were possible the club should deal with the situation
themselves and ensure that any action is appropriate.
The priority, particularly with regard to children and young
people is education, however at times sanctions may be
the more appropriate response. Record the incident and
any actions taken.
Where the incident is serious, is bullying or intimidating
then reporting to the RFL may be the best option
RFL support.
If the club requires any additional information or advice
regarding challenging homophobic language or behaviour
contact Sarah Williams, if the incident is of a serious
nature, or if you feel that the other team staff or match
officials have not responded appropriately then contact
the RFL Compliance team. If you have any safeguarding
concerns as the result of any incidents contact
Colette Eden.
4. Impact of the term on victim or others who overhear the
comment or observe the behaviours.
Potential impact of homophobic abuse or behaviour
17
3.6 How can I respond? - Professional Game
This flowchart is guidance rather than directive as it recognizes that all situations are unique and the judgement of the
stewards and GSO is paramount in deciding what action to take and when in order to ensure the safety of both staff
and spectators.
Key stewarding processes
1) Ongoing assessment
2) Judgement
3) Communication
4) Appropriate Action
5) Record
GSO PREMATCH TRAINING AND BRIEFING FOR STEWARDS - emphasize the need to listen out for and noting
homophobic and racist language and clarify that any incidents need to be dealt with quickly and appropriately.
Remind to use reporting sheets.
BEFORE GAME - Play RESPECT message and promote TACKLE IT! text line service number if anyone experiences
racist, homophobic language.
Homophobic language and / or abuse identified in crowd by steward, spectator reporting to steward, or via text line.
Steward assesses information and gravity of situation. RECORD DECISIONS & ACTIONS.
POSSIBLE ACTIONS - INDIVIDUAL
Assess gravity of incident and decide either to tell the individual to stop making homophobic comments.
Explain it is against Rugby League RESPECT code of conduct and values of game.
Have they stopped?
Record on incident reporting sheet. If necessary remove from stadium.
YES
NO - minor incident
NO - serious
Monitor situation.
SUPERVISOR - Request roving camera, CCTV
(if available) to record as possible evidence.
Consider police support. Request persons details
and ticket and inform them they will have to leave
the ground.
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS
Have they stopped?
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTION
Is the person cooperating?
By challenging individual club making it clear that
homophobia will not be tolerated in our sport. Also
educates people around the area.
YES
Reassess situation. Remind individual that
homophobia is not acceptable and if it continues
you will evict them from the ground.
If you have details of individuals pass
on to GSO who will forward to club they will then send copy of RESPECT
code of conduct to individuals and
monitor future matches.
REPORT TO YOUR SUPERVISOR. RECORD
Have they stopped?
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTION
YES
By letting them know they face eviction or indeed
other sanctions making a clear statement that
homophobia will not be tolerated.
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTION.
REPORT TO SUPERVISOR. Have they stopped?
NO
NO
Call for back up from response team/ and or
police / Report incident and pass on details to
club for investigation and possible sanctions match ban, season ban, inform other clubs.
RFL involvement.
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTION
Ensure that all stewards report any incidents and outcomes to supervisor at end of match. Supervisors report back
to GSO at post match briefing and record on RFL incident reporting form and send to RFL.
Be aware that what started out as an individual incident may escalate to a crowd control situation.
18
Flowchart for matchday environment
Call in additional stewards to support and if appropriate / possible tell crowd that homophobic chanting /
comments must stop and RL has a zero tolerance towards homophobia.
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS. Has it stopped?
YES
NO
Radio GSO and request further support/ roving
cameras/ CCTV for evidence. Ask RESPECT
message to be played. Reiterate that further
sanctions will be applied if they do not stop.
YES
By challenging crowd sent a clear message that
homophobia will not be tolerated in our sport. Also
educates and reassures people around that the
sport is committed to challenging homophobia
YES
By continuing to challenge crowd have realised
there may be more serious consequences if they
continue.
YES
Fans realise they are jeopardizing the game
and risking severe sanctions which could have
devastating consequences on their club.
YES
By stopping match briefly to make a PA
announcement sends very clear message that
homophobia not tolerated.
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS. Has it stopped?
NO
INFORM MATCH COMMISSIONER
Simple, direct PA announcement informing crowd
in (specify area) that their language or behaviour
is unacceptable, contravenes respect code and
cannot continue. Can message also appear on
screen or score board.
matchday environment
POSSIBLE ACTIONS - GROUP / CROWD
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS. Has it stopped?
NO
REASSESS SITUATION - deploy further staff from
stadium into the area. Consider calling the police
for back up.
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS. Has it stopped?
NO
CONTINUING / ESCALATING. GSO and Match
Commissioner work together to put match
suspension plan in place to ensure safety of
crowds. Crowd still not responding to requests to
stop - GSO contacts referee to stop match briefly
in order to make a further PA announcement that
homophobic comments must stop immediately or
match will be abandoned.
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS. Has it stopped?
NO
Match abandoned - GSO, match commissioner,
police and all stewards follow emergency match
abandoned procedure. Safe evacuation of stadium
is priority - Police also ensure safety of crowd
outside the stadium.
RECORD INCIDENT AND ACTIONS. Has it stopped?
further action
Formal investigation of incident by club. Gather evidence of Ground staff actions from incident recording sheets
and other sources to present to RFL hearing. If club has demonstrated best endeavours it will mitigate risk of loss
of points, fines, ordered to play subsequent matches behind closed doors.
Flowchart for matchday environment
19
3.7 Responding to homophobic abuse or behaviour
Stewards, Ground safety officer and other match day
staff should not be put off challenging homophobic abuse
for fear of an adverse reaction. However at all times
members of staff will need to constantly re-evaluate the
situation and response if they are to be confident that
their response is both appropriate and the safety of the
individuals, those in the direct area and the wider match is
ensured.
•Warn that if they don’t stop then they may be asked
to leave
•Report to supervisor and request support / back up
•Ask individual for their details and let them know the
club will conduct an investigation
•Evict from the ground
TRAINING STEWARDS
Stewards are the clubs front line response team and
as such it is vital that clubs ensure that all stewards
understand what is meant by homophobic language/
abuse as well as conflict resolution and assertiveness
training to enable stewards to respond with confidence
and appropriately to any such incidents. Ideally training /
briefing session on homophobia will be undertaken at the
start of the season then the issue incorporated into every
pre-match briefing undertaken by the GSO
Pre match briefings / start of season briefing for
stewards. The role of the GSO is absolutely crucial to the
management of the crowd on match day. The GSO can
ensure that all stewards are fully aware of what constitutes
homophobic abuse and what they should do in the
eventuality of this happening
RESPONDING TO HOMOPHOBIC LANGUAGE
AND BEHAVIOUR
Emphasis is on diffusing the situation whilst making sure
that the individual is clear that their language or behaviour
is unacceptable in Rugby League.
•There are children around and they should not have to
hear this type of language
•People have paid to come to the match and enjoy the
game they don’t want to listen to this type of language
•Your language / behaviour is making people feel
uncomfortable
•Your language / behaviour is unacceptable under the
games RESPECT code
•Your language / behaviour is bringing the game into
disrepute
•You are putting the club at risk of a fine and damage to
our reputation
POSSIBLE ACTIONS IN RESPONSE TO HOMOPHOBIC
LANGUAGE AND BEHAVIOUR
• Play RESPECT message
•Ask a person to stop making such comments
(see above)
20
Responding to homophobic abuse or behaviour
•Direct CCTV (if available) or roving camera to area to
record as evidence
•Contact police liaison officer - their authority might
have a better response
•GSO inform referee that there is a problem and they
may have to suspend the game temporarily - refer to
any plans put into place for such a response
•Referee temporarily suspends game and ensures player
safety - ground staff and match commissioner ensure
safety of fans at match
•GSO referee and match commissioner abandon match
and ensure safe evacuation of stadium
KEEP AN ACCURATE RECORD OF ALL INCIDENTS
AND ANY ACTION TAKEN
It is vital that all staff to observe or respond to any
incidents record what happened and any action taken
using the appropriate reporting methods stipulated by the
club Ground Safety officer, they may include reporting to
a senior steward /supervisor or completing an incident
reporting form which will be sent alongside the match
report to RFL. Incidents should also be recorded in the
GSO log.
Benefits of maintaining accurate records
•A useful learning tool as post match records can
be used to review and evaluate the responses to
any incidents and discuss other possible alternative
responses.
•It can be a means of identifying any trends in terms of
number and types of incidents, fans / clubs involved
etc based on collected evidence rather than anecdotal
reports.
•Accurate records may also be vital evidence if a
club is required to demonstrate how it responded to
specific incidents as well as demonstrate a season long
commitment to challenging any abusive, homophobic
or other, abuse or behaviour
Club staff should be given the confidence and support to
challenge homophobic language when it occurs. However,
there are a number of things staff can do to cultivate a
culture that discourages the use of homophobic language.
POSTERS AND DISPLAYS
Use posters to communicate to positive messages on
equality for lesbian, gay and bisexual people, such as
Stonewall’s ‘Some people are gay Get over it!’ poster
campaign. They can be displayed in public areas, bars,
concourse, and at turnstiles, postcards can be left
on tables and on the bar. The club website can be an
invaluable arena for emphasising the clubs commitment to
inclusion and to challenging homophobia
TRAINING AND INFORMATION
Ensure that staff at the club who attend Club for All
and Equity in Your Coaching courses disseminate that
information to other club staff. Attend the annual Equality
and Diversity conference which includes information on
sexual orientation. RFL Equality and Diversity Manager
is happy to provide advice, guidance and information.
Stonewall and pride Sports are two organisations that
would also be able to offer information on tackling
homophobia and creating an inclusive environment
POST MATCH BRIEFING AND REPORTING
Ensure that any incidents of homophobic language and
behaviours are recorded and passed on to RFL for further
investigation according to operational rules. Where
incident occur ensure that the club bring together key staff
to discuss strategies for responding should they occur
again and what they can do proactively to prevent similar
situations in the future. Contact RFL and/ or Stonewall and
Pride Sports for further information guidance and support
PROMOTE TEXTLINE SERVICE
Make sure fans are aware of the service and the number
so that if they do not feel comfortable / safe to make a
complaint directly to the stewards they can use the text
line service which goes directly to the GSO of the club.
Check customer awareness of service by conducting
random survey and if not a high enough recognition devise
additional measures to increase awareness. Possible
suggestions include displaying number on club website,
using advertising hoardings, match programmes, on
tickets, on high visibility vests of stewards, video screen
electronic score boards etc.
matchday environment
3.8 Prevention
3.9 It’s the law!
Homophobic hate crimes are very serious and police
forces have a duty to address them. However, contrary
to many peoples perceptions homophobic hate crimes
are not an offence in their own right. People cannot be
charged or prosecuted with the offence of a ‘homophobic
hate crime’. Rather if an offence is committed, such as
assault or a public order offence, and the perpetrator is
found guilty, the courts can impose a tougher sentence if
the offence was shown to motivated by homophobia. This
is just one of the many aggravating factors courts can take
into account when deciding on a sentence.
Under Section 146 of the Criminal Justice Act (England
and Wales) 2003, homophobia is determined to be an
aggravating factor when at the time of committing the
offence, or immediately before or after doing so, the
offender demonstrated towards the victim of the offence
hostility based on the sexual orientation (or presumed
sexual orientation) of the victim’
or
‘that the offence is motivated (wholly or partly) by
hostility towards persons who are of a particular sexual
orientation’.
Some cases of homophobic behaviour at matches
may constitute an offence. It is however for the police
to determine whether and offence has occurred. For
courts to determine whether an offence is motivated
by homophobia evidence will need to presented. It is
therefore vital that you record all evidence of homophobia,
or suspected homophobia, should it be required at a
later date.
It’s the law!
21
3.10 Top ten recommendations for tackling homophobia
on match days
1
TRAINING TO RECOGNISE HOMOPHOBIA AND HAVE THE CONFIDENCE TO CHALLENGE
2
INCLUDE REMINDER ABOUT HOMOPHOBIA AT EACH PREMATCH BRIEFING
3
RESPECT MESSAGE PLAYED AT THE START OF EACH MATCH
4
PROMOTE MATCH DAY TACKLE IT! TEXT LINE NUMBER
5
RESPOND TO REPORTED OR IDENTIFIED HOMOPHOBIC INCIDENTS AS SERIOUSLY
AS RACIST INCIDENTS
It is important that GSO and Match Commissioners and stewards who are the front line staff required to
respond to homophobic incidents have received appropriate training / briefing session with at start of each
new season.
GSO to include reminder to challenge homophobic bullying at each pre match briefing for stewards and
importance of recording on incident record sheet.
This will remind fans of the importance of RESPECT code of conduct in relation to their behaviour in the
stands. Consider ways of increasing impact of the RESPECT message by asking team captain, young fans
etc to record the message.
Remind fans they can report any incidents via the Tackle It! Text Line without compromising their safety.
Promote number in match programme, use posters around stadium, on score board or other means.
Periodically monitor and evaluate fan awareness of the text line service
Stewards and other staff must respond as effectively and vigorously as they would to reported incidents
of racism.
6
DOING NOTHING IS NOT AN OPTION
7
KEY STEWARDING PROCESSES
8
SAFETY OF STAFF, INDIVIDUALS AND CROWD AT A MATCH IS PARAMOUNT
9
GATHER EVIDENCE FOR POST MATCH REVIEW AND IN CASE REFERRED FOR INVESTIGATION
10
Homophobia is a serious issue that cannot be ignored. Homophobia contravenes the RESPECT code and
the spirit of the game.
Assessment - of gravity of situation and safety considerations
Judgement - staff use their judgement of situation to determine appropriate action
Communication - ensure information is shared between all lines of command
Action - ensure action taken is appropriate to the situation
Record - all incidents and actions taken to resolve incident should be recorded on the incident reporting
sheet. Information compiled by GSO at end of match and report sent to Operations department at RFL.
In deciding what action to take in response to any incident it must be balanced against potentials risks
to safety.
Instruct roving camera / direct CCTV cameras to area, undercover stewards, take photos, record incidents
on mobile phone if possible. Where possible gather details of individuals, retain ticket stubs, check ID, make
note of seat numbers etc RECORD on incident sheets
GSO, MATCH COMMISSIONER AND POLICE WORK TOGETHER IF MATCH SUSPENDED
OR ABANDONED
This is a last resort strategy and will not be taken lightly. At all time the safety of those at the match is
paramount. Clear procedures on safe evacuation of match should be reviewed regularly so that everyone
involved is aware of their role if this should occur.
22
Top ten recommendations for tackling homophobia on match days
Venue
Match
Date
Completed by
Tick all that apply:
TYPE OF INCIDENT
Racist verbal or physical abuse
(indicate who directed at: player,
spectator, match official, other)
Homophobic verbal or physical abuse
(indicate who directed at: player,
spectator, match official, other)
Disability based verbal or physical
abuse (indicate who directed at:
player, spectator, match official, other)
Gender / gender identity physical or
verbal abuse (indicate who directed at:
player, spectator, match official, other)
Religious/ faith based (Anti-Semetic
or Islamaphobic) verbal or physical
abuse (indicate who directed at:
player, spectator, match official, other)
General unacceptable level of abuse;
verbal of physical (indicate who
directed at: player, spectator, match
official, other)
EXTENT OF INCIDENT
Individual
Group (indicate numbers involved)
LOCATION OF INCIDENT
Stand / area / seat number
Asked individual to stop
On pitch
Second request / warning
to stop
Bar
Hospitality box number
Isolated but repeated
Continuous breach
GRAVITY OF INCIDENT
Minor infringement
Moderate infringement
Additional message
requested
Final warning to stop
Car park
Turnstiles
Personal details taken /
tickets requested
Evicted from ground
Concourse area
Ticket office
Other please specify
WHO IDENTIFIED CONCERN
member of public
Tackle It! text line
Via camera
Additional stewards /
supervisors requested and
deployed
Roving camera deployed
Closed circuit cameras
directed
Police back up requested
Individual(s) arrested
Steward
Match temporarily
suspended
Stadium staff
Match abandoned
Match commissioner
Further follow up enquiries
required
Police
Banning order to be pursued
Serious infringement
Were alcohol or drugs involved
RESPECT message
requested
Toilets
DEGREE OF INCIDENT
Isolated breach
ACTION TAKEN
RFL incident reporting form
RFL incident reporting form
RFL incident reporting form
23
Further information and support
If you have any questions regarding this document or would like any additional
support or advice on any aspect please contact the relevant contacts listed below
RFL STAFF
Sarah Williams - Equality and Diversity Manager RFL
0113 237 50 37 sarah.williams@rfl.uk.com
Collette Eden - Safeguarding Manager RFL
0113 237 50 46 Colette.eden@rfl.uk.com
Karen Moorhouse - Compliance Team - RFL
0113 823 91 82 Karen.moorhouse@rfl.uk.com
OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS
Phil Cunningham - Chair Ground Safety Officer
rlgsoa@googlemail.com
Stonewall
Direct: 020 7593 1852 Switchboard: 020 7593 1850 Info Line: 08000 50 20 20
www.stonewall.org.uk
Pride Sport - Lou Englefield, Director Pride Sports
34 St Lawrence Quay, Salford Quays, Manchester M50 3XT
+44 (0)7949 604610 or email louise.englefield@ntlworld.com
We hope you have found this guidance useful. It is intended that this document
will evolve and develop to reflect the experiences and learning that occurs as
Rugby League engages with LGB people and challenges homophobia as and
when it occurs. To that end we would welcome comments and feedback and in
particular any case studies and examples of good practice.
Thank you
Sarah Williams
Equality and Diversity Manager
RFL