Michelle Daltry
Head of Sport, Inclusive Employers
While banter can strengthen team dynamics, it also has the potential to encourage discrimination. Addressing its harmful effects is key to creating a safe and inclusive culture.
The term ‘banter’ is used frequently in our society and workplace to refer to jokes, comments or exchanges which have humorous or harmless intent. However, organisations are increasingly seeking support for problems with banter.
Banter can become offensive or harmful
What constitutes ‘teasing’ is very subjective and can easily cross the line into bullying and harassment under The Equality Act 2010, which is defined as “behaviour that makes someone feel intimidated or offended.”
Banter becomes a problem when it makes anyone (colleague, customer, member of the public) feel uncomfortable, excluded, embarrassed, harassed, bullied or harmed in any way. Organisations and sporting communities that are aiming to create an inclusive culture should be working to eliminate all types of exclusion, including inappropriate and harmful banter.
Problems may arise when potentially discriminatory comments are disguised as harmless banter.
When banter crosses the line
Research has shown that one of the primary motivations for taking part in sport and physical activity is to have fun. Creating both a safe and welcoming environment is paramount for everyone while harnessing the fun and engagement that is an inherent part of sports culture.
Banter in sport is a recognisable characteristic of sport and physical activity and is often seen as a tool for team cohesion. It is often considered to be a light-hearted, reciprocal joking among teammates. However, it is also one way in which racism, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia and other types of abuse can become normalised in the sports environment.
Light-hearted and good-natured banter has the potential to ‘cross the line.’ More specifically, problems may arise when potentially discriminatory comments are disguised as harmless banter. As these attempts at banter go unchallenged, they become accepted and normalised practices among team members.
Game plan for handling banter
Step 1: Collaborate to develop a player, coach and volunteer code of conduct that includes banter (it may also be an idea to develop this for parents, guardians and carers).
Step 2: Ensure that all players sign up to the code of conduct and are aware of what constitutes inappropriate banter and their individual responsibilities to each other.
Step 3: Identify a mechanism for individuals to report inappropriate banter that will be taken seriously and managed appropriately.
Step 4: Support coaches and volunteers to develop their awareness of the risks of harmful banter, and equip them with tools to manage incidents appropriately.
Step 5: Continually review processes and seek feedback to identify any challenges or areas for further development.
