BBC Launches 60-Minute Training to Tackle Harassment and Bullying in Response to Scandals
The BBC has introduced a 60-minute LinkedIn training course for freelancers, focusing on tackling harassment and bullying at work. This move comes in response to several high-profile scandals involving its staff.
The training, which is not mandatory for BBC staff, includes modules on inappropriate behaviours such as interrupting colleagues and using ageist terms like 'silver fox' or 'baby-faced'.
The BBC has also implemented new guidelines encouraging staff to be mindful of everyone's pronouns, although one employee found it challenging to remember all of them. The use of terms like 'sweetheart' has been banned to foster a safer work environment. The guidance also warns against microaggressions, such as comments on accents or hair.
To create a more welcoming and safe workplace, the BBC is using LinkedIn passports. This follows recent scandals involving MasterChef hosts John Torode and Gregg Wallace, as well as Strictly Come Dancing's Giovanni Pernice.
The BBC's efforts to improve workplace culture include a 60-minute LinkedIn training course for freelancers, new guidelines on respectful language, and the use of LinkedIn passports. While not mandatory for staff, these initiatives aim to create a safer and more inclusive work environment following recent scandals.
