Respect in Racing campaign launches BHA industry code of conduct

British racing has launched a Respect in Racing campaign aimed at encouraging a culture of respect and safeguarding against discrimination within the sport.

The campaign, which was developed by a cross-industry working party, will be backed by a BHA code of conduct from October 8, following consultation with racing's major bodies.

The code of conduct applies to all within racing and aims to ensure people feel safe and supported, with pledges to protect against bullying, harassment and abuse, including through social media.

Laura Whyte, a BHA independent non-executive director who chaired the working party, said: "Respect is an essential component of effective working relationships – I hope that the introduction of the code of conduct and this supportive campaign will ensure everyone in our industry enjoys a positive working life."

Rolled out on posters and digital platforms, the campaign will outline the process of reporting any incidents which may breach the code, alongside offering support services for those affected.

The code will be underpinned by a regulatory framework, with sanctions in place to deal with breaches.

BHA chief executive Julie Harrington added: "Racing is a sport which is built on values of camaraderie and care but at the same time it is an elite sporting environment where the stakes and pressure are high.

"The respect campaign, and the code of conduct which underpins it, is a reminder that we should always do our best to treat each other with the respect and dignity that we all deserve."

George McGrath, chief executive of the National Association of Racing Staff, added: "The Respect in Racing campaign is not about telling staff they can't share a joke with colleagues but rather that as society moves with the times, so must we.

"Acceptable standards of behaviour have changed in the past few decades, and we fully support these efforts to ensure that everyone in racing, including the thousands of stable staff working tirelessly day in day out, can feel happy, safe and respected."

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