UK Launches Whistleblowing Portal for Entertainment Industry Workers to Report Abuse, Harassment and Discrimination

Following the launch of a new portal by the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CISA), workers across Britain's film, television, music and theatre sectors can now report whistleblowing concerns, including those related to harassment and abuse. As a formally designated whistleblowing body, people can report their concerns about experiences related to […]

Workers in the UK's film, television, music and theater sectors can now report whistle-blowing concerns, including cases of harassment and abuse, after the launch of a new portal by the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA).

As a formally designated whistleblower organisation, people can now report concerns to CIISA about experiences that are relevant to CIISA's standards and may have a wider impact on others. Reports are made confidentially and CIISA says it "takes careful steps to protect the identity of those who refer to them". RELATED STORIES The 14th Review: Ava DuVernay's Powerful Sequel to 'The 13th' Turns a Constitutional Amendment into Living History 'The Driller' Review: Tom Cruise as a Texas Oil Tycoon in Alejandro J. Iñárritu reaches the top.

The launch comes as the UK legal system grapples with one of the most high-profile abuse cases in the entertainment industry, with Russell Brand currently on trial for three counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault and one count of indecent assault. According to reports and investigations into the allegations, a culture of fear and intimidation caused by the brand's reputation and influence allowed the alleged behavior to continue for years. Popular in Variety

The launch also follows the soft launch of the reporting service in June. After being recognized by parliament as a whistleblower, CIISA has since received around 30 reports (since 1 October) and is now anticipating an increase in the volume.

Culture Minister Lisa Nandy said: "There is absolutely no place for abuse, harassment or discrimination in the workplace, and it is vital that people have a confidential place to report any concerns so that action can be taken."

The new CISA reporting portal is an important step in tackling this and this Government will continue to support them every step of the way. Safety in the workplace is non-negotiable and we expect employers across the creative industries to work with CIISA and adhere to the highest standards.

CIISA President Helena Kennedy KC added: "This is an important milestone for CIISA and the creative industries. The creative sector is a success story in the UK and protecting the people who drive this success is at the heart of CIISA's ambitions; I would like to thank government and industry for their support in getting us to this place. However, as an industry supporter CIISA needs full financial support to continue. There is a clear demand for its services."

Philippa Childs, head of entertainment workers' union Bectu, said CIISA was created because "the imbalance of power, the predominance of freelancers and the short-term nature of projects means that the creative industries are a place where predators and bullies can hide in plain sight."

"Providing an anonymous, industry-wide and recognized platform for workers to report bad behavior is a critical next step in tackling bullying and harassment," he added.

Workers who report concerns to CIISA may have additional legal protections under UK whistleblowing law, including where they may have already signed an NDA. However, CIISA's first-stage reporting service is initially focused on creating what it describes as "a clearer picture of the behaviors and practices affecting people across the sector", rather than action on individual cases.