Off the Ball, Radio Scotland, 20 April 2013

Complaint

A listener complained that one of the presenters had described a football fan as carrying a “wee, poofy banner”.

Outcome

Although it was used without derogatory intent, the word “poofy”, in this context, suggested something feeble or ineffectual, and thus tended to perpetuate an offensive stereotype.

Upheld

Further action

Editor Sport (Scotland) discussed the finding with the producer of the programme and the presenter concerned, with reference to portrayal and the potential for certain terms to cause offence.  Though there had been no intent to offend, they recognised that offence had in fact been caused on this occasion, and offered their apologies.