A webinar with Ineke Houtenbos
In a powerful and thought-provoking webinar hosted by the NSPCC senior trainer Ineke Houtenbos, we explore the complex and often uncomfortable topic of unconscious bias in sport and physical activity.
“Unconscious bias is universal. We all absorb values and messages from the environments we grow up in, and the ones we’ve learned about race and identity haven’t happened by accident—they’ve been shaped by history, power, and culture.
“Understanding unconscious bias doesn’t mean you’re cured of it. It means you’re aware of how it operates—and that awareness is the first step toward accountability. Bias influences who we trust, who we listen to, and how we treat others. Left unchecked, it reinforces inequality. But when we recognize it, we can begin to challenge it—and choose to act differently.” - Ineke Houtenbos
The webinar is divided into three parts, each to help people understand the root cause, meaning and impacts of unconscious bias.
Part 1: where does it come from?
Ineke begins by exploring historical events and how this affects how we see people today. She shares uncomfortable but essential truths about how language and ideology around race evolved.
Part 2: what is unconscious bias?
In the second part, the webinar aims to define unconscious bias. Why do we make assumptions about others based on stereotypes and conditioning? Ineke talks about a few categories of unconscious bias, helping you to recognise how these can influence decisions and actions in sport and physical activity settings.
Part 3: impact and next actions
The final part explores how unconscious bias and racism affects marginalised communities in sport and physical activity. Ineke discusses access, opportunity, and treatment in sport, often making it more difficult for people of colour and making inequality worse.
She offers steps for becoming more aware of and addressing unconscious bias. This includes education, creating welcoming environments, and actively challenging discrimination.
Ineke Houtenbos
As a senior trainer with the NSPCC, Ineke brings expertise and compassion to this critical conversation. Her approach is rooted in empathy, education, and empowerment—making this webinar a must-watch for anyone involved in sport and physical activity.