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A 24-hour hotline has been arrange for folks 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 unbiased inquiry, stated it had been arrange in a bid to “develop the methods through which folks can come ahead” to report data.
She stated she had opened the confidential cellphone line till 19 Could so folks might converse along with her or her colleagues straight.
Westwood was questioned twice this year, 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 inside assessment discovered the company should have further explored a string of sexual assault allegations against Westwood.
The inquiry, which has already seen greater than 50,000 BBC paperwork, was anticipated to publish its findings within the spring.
However giving an replace on its progress, Ms White stated the assessment is taking “longer than many would have hoped”, and could be prolonged till June or July to permit for a “thorough assessment” of latest data.
Saying the brand new hotline, Ms White stated: “I’ve not too long ago been supplied with materials suggesting that there are individuals who wish to contribute to the assessment by calling me, or members of the Linklaters assessment group, relatively than having to e mail to make an appointment to talk.”
Jahnine Davis, a safeguarding skilled with experience in violence towards girls and ladies and safeguarding black kids, has additionally been engaged on the assessment since November 2022.
“Now we have mentioned participation within the assessment and assume that some folks would possibly desire to talk on to Jahnine relatively than having to rearrange a gathering with me,” Ms White stated.
The phoneline will permit folks to contact Ms Davis straight or be handed to Ms White.
The hotline shall be accessible on 08000 121 838 till 19 Could and shall be answered throughout the working day and on sure evenings. Exterior of those hours, an answering system shall be accessible to take messages.
Final 12 months, an announcement from a consultant of Westwood stated: “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.”
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