Steps to combat online abuse taken by National Trainers Federation

The National Trainers Federation (NTF) has announced the launch of a campaign and new reporting process aimed at combatting abusive content sent to trainers.

A press release from the NTF confirmed the appointment of former Police Superintendent Sean Memory, who will join the project team to advise on how investigations can be moved on with the aim of getting involvement from the British Horseracing Authority or the Police.

The measures being announced have been already tested by trainers in Lambourn and the aim is to create a centralised database of these kind of communications in order to help identify those behind them.

The NTF statement said: "Abusive communications have become an ever-increasing concern in today's digital age and the NTF recognises the importance of taking a proactive stance against such behaviours.

"As part of this campaign, which has already been trialed amongst Lambourn trainers, the organisation is rolling out an easy-to-use reporting process. This will be a simple-to-use hub into which trainers can direct abusive communications received, in the knowledge that they will begin to create a wider base of evidence that we will seek to act upon.

"Information will continue to be shared with the BHA’s RaceWISE service and in serious cases, may result in information being handed to the police. In addition to this, advice and guidance will be provided to trainers as to how to reduce exposure to abusive communications, seeking to draw on the learnings of other sports. The project team at the NTF will include former police Superintendent, Sean Memory, who brings a wealth of expertise in the management of investigations.

"It is recognised that identifying the individual behind anonymous messages is very challenging in the digital age. Sean’s skills in doing so will be of great value in getting to a stage where the BHA and/or police are able to act.

"It is hoped that the Government’s Online Safety Bill, which will shortly receive Royal Assent, will also play a role in reducing the abuse faced by participants given the new duties it will place on social media companies to prevent and remove abuse that is posted onto their platforms."

Paul Johnson, Chief Executive of the NTF said: "We are pleased to launch this campaign and reporting process in full, which we believe can make a real difference in combatting abusive communications to our members.

"We are fortunate to have secured the services of Sean Memory, whose knowledge of racing, and experience of dealing with abusive content and its implications will be invaluable. This initiative reinforces the organisation's commitment to ensuring that trainers can operate without harassment or threats of harm.”

For more information about the NTF’s campaign and reporting process, please click here.