BBC Provides Safeguarding Guru For Probe Into DJ’s Conduct – Deadline

The BBC has appointed an impartial safeguarding professional to help its investigation into what was recognized about disgraced DJ Tim Westwood’s conduct whereas he labored on the broadcaster, with a name for proof interval now prolonged to permit extra folks to come back forwards.

Jahnine Davis, an professional within the safeguarding of younger folks, will work with Gemma White QC of Linklaters to help with the overview. White famous Davis could be obtainable to affix conversations and conferences as she compiles the in depth doc.

A joint Guardian newspaper and BBC investigation into Westwood’s conduct throughout his 20 years on the BBC final 12 months revealed a number of ladies, all of whom have been teenage or younger adults on the time, had accused him of sexual misconduct and predatory habits. Westwood denies the allegations, which have been additionally featured in BBC documentary Tim Westwood: Abuse of Energy.

White will present an account of any allegations or issues related to Westwood’s misconduct to the BBC Board, together with the the reason why such allegations weren’t dropped at the BBC’s consideration. BBC Director Basic Tim Davie gaffed in April, when he mentioned he knew of no complaints in opposition to Westwood throughout his time there. A number of weeks later, the company mentioned there had in actual fact been six complaints in opposition to Westwood over bullying and sexual misconduct, certainly one of which had been handed to the police. 

“It has been simply over a month for the reason that BBC revealed my name for proof for the overview and I need to thank everybody who has come ahead with data,” mentioned White immediately.

“A few of you might have advised me how tough it has been so that you can take the choice to contact me. I perceive that talking about delicate issues may be painful and there are a lot of issues that you’ve got wanted to contemplate earlier than doing so.

“Others who’ve written or spoken to me have questioned whether or not the data they need to contribute is related, or sufficiently vital – and my reply to that’s, merely, sure. I’ve been, and stay, eager to listen to from everybody who has something to say to me. You will need to me that I hear from everybody who needs to talk and I’ve due to this fact determined to increase the interval for folks to get in contact.”

The BBC has beforehand mentioned it’s also in touch with the Metropolitan Police and any related data will likely be handed to the power. In August, police confirmed they’re investigating sexual offense allegations in opposition to the previous DJ.