Broadcasters back anti-bullying authority

Britain’s five major broadcasters have offered support for the next stage of development for an Independent Standards Authority (ISA) to help tackle bullying and harassment within the creative industries.

Proposals for the ISA were developed by Time’s Up UK, in consultation with the creative industries, led by Chief Executive of Creative UK Caroline Norbury.

The proposal has the backing of broadcasters including the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5 and Sky, who say they are committed to creating working environments built on “respect and diversity”.

The new body will offer confidential advice, mediation and investigations into complaints from anyone who reports suffering abuse, harassment or bullying.

“It is well known that concerns are often not raised until after film and TV productions have ceased, where broadcasters and production companies no longer have remit to address them,” said Dame Heather Rabbatts, Chair of Time’s Up UK.

“In this grey space many suffer in silence. Nor is there any process, especially where there are multiple allegations. The ISA will conduct expert led investigations where both sides can be heard by an independent panel of skilled investigators working to the highest standards of legal confidentiality.”

The creative industries will fund the next stage of the ISA’s development, which will include design of the remit, structure and funding arrangements. 

The ISA is already supported by BAFTA, BECTU, the BFI, the PMA and the Casting Director’s Guild.