THERE is a lot of pain and hurt being felt this week following the outcome of the case involving Bryony Frost and Robbie Dunne. The evidence in the case made for unpleasant reading, and lessons must be quickly learned from it as we move forward.

I sincerely hope, and believe, that what happened in this case is not the norm, and it is important to say this clearly. There are times, however, when it is a very thin line between banter and bullying, and we should not assume that the measures of each are the same for everyone. This must not be seen either as a gender only issue – many men may feel bullied when colleagues think it is otherwise, and the same applies to women.

Bullying

Workplaces should be comfortable for all to operate in, and I was disheartened to hear concerns expressed about Bryony Frost returning to the racecourse environment and how warmly she might be greeted – or not.

This smacks of another form of bullying, possibly making it difficult to carry out her professional duties.

It is often said that the most insidious form of bullying and abuse is not physical, but rather psychological. Neither are of course acceptable. However, one can be seen, while the other is about how someone is treated. They may be cold-shouldered or ignored, but proving that this is bullying and a form of abuse is hard. The effects though can be very damaging.

Again, I would stress that this is not only an issue for female sportspeople. We need to rid the weigh-room – and all areas of life – of any culture that may be uncomfortable for participants. While this week was difficult for racing, it can now be the start of a new culture, and one that can be held up as an example of how the authorities brought about positive change.

Work together

While those in charge can monitor and administrate, it is up to the jockeys, in this case, to lead the way. They need to consult with each other, work together, and not be afraid to raise their heads above the parapet when they see wrongdoing.

Headlines such as we have seen in recent weeks are widely viewed outside the bubble of the world of racing, and discredit the sport. We know that the vast majority of weigh-room colleagues treat each other with respect, and many senior riders are mentors to young people entering the sport. That is the message that now must go out.