A 24-hour hotline has been arrange for individuals to report details about alleged intercourse offences by former BBC Radio 1 DJ Tim Westwood.
The hotline is a part of a BBC inquiry into what the company knew about allegations of sexual misconduct towards its ex-employee.
Barrister Gemma White KC, who’s main the impartial inquiry, mentioned it had been arrange in a bid to “expand the ways in which people can come forward” to report data.
She mentioned she had opened the confidential cellphone line till 19 May so individuals might communicate along with her or her colleagues immediately.
Westwood was questioned twice this 12 months, in March and April, over 5 alleged intercourse offences going again 40 years.
The 65-year-old, who stepped down from his present on Capital Xtra in April final 12 months, strongly denies the allegations.
Ms White was appointed by the BBC Board final August after an inner evaluate discovered the company ought to have additional explored a string of sexual assault allegations towards Westwood.
The inquiry, which has already seen greater than 50,000 BBC paperwork, was anticipated to publish its findings within the spring.
But giving an replace on its progress, Ms White mentioned the evaluate is taking “longer than many would have hoped”, and could be prolonged till June or July to permit for a “thorough review” of latest data.
Announcing the brand new hotline, Ms White mentioned: “I have recently been provided with material suggesting that there are people who want to contribute to the review by calling me, or members of the Linklaters review team, rather than having to email to make an appointment to speak.”
Jahnine Davis, a safeguarding skilled with experience in violence towards girls and women and safeguarding black kids, has additionally been engaged on the evaluate since November 2022.
“We have discussed participation in the review and think that some people might prefer to speak directly to Jahnine rather than having to arrange a meeting with me,” Ms White mentioned.
The phoneline will permit individuals to contact Ms Davis immediately or be handed to Ms White.
The hotline can be obtainable on 08000 121 838 till 19 May and can be answered in the course of the working day and on sure evenings. Outside of those hours, an answering system can be obtainable to take messages.
Last 12 months, a press release from a consultant of Westwood mentioned: “Tim Westwood strongly denies all allegations of inappropriate behaviour.
“In a profession that has spanned 40 years, there have by no means been any complaints made towards him formally or unofficially.
“Tim Westwood strongly rejects all allegations of wrongdoing.”
Content Source: information.sky.com