Almost five years following the controversy involving Noel Clarke, the UK is set to introduce a significant new service for reporting bullying and harassment within the creative industries.
The Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA) plans to initiate its reporting hotline in September. It is noted that individuals who come forward with complaints through CIISA could receive additional legal protections under British whistleblowing laws, even if they are bound by previously signed Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs).
This enhancement in protection is possible because CIISA has been officially recognized by the UK government as a whistleblowing authority. Starting from June 2, a Public Interest Disclosure Order will be effective, appointing CIISA as a ‘Prescribed Person’ for whistleblowing disclosures specifically in the sectors of film, TV, music, and theater.
In its three-year strategic plan detailed in the report titled Empowering Creativity by Protecting People, CIISA outlines that its reporting service will commence this September. The focus will be on establishing a clearer understanding of the behaviors and practices that impact individuals throughout these industries. The plan includes launching an independent reporting service by 2026-27 to facilitate the creation of data sets, followed by the introduction of an “early intervention function” in the subsequent year aimed at recognizing patterns and addressing issues before they worsen.
CIISA’s approach allows for the tracking and early intervention of bullying and harassment complaints regarding individuals who work across various projects. The initiative stems from the aftermath of the Clarke scandal and the Time’s Up UK movement in the summer of 2021, when Clarke, a Doctor Who actor, was accused by over 20 women of misconduct, which he has consistently denied.
Since the Clarke incident, other high-profile cases have arisen involving figures like Gregg Wallace and Russell Brand, who have both denied the allegations against them.
Despite support from celebrities such as Keira Knightley and Naomie Harris, CIISA has struggled with funding issues, which delayed the launch of its reporting service. The organization has been soliciting annual contributions from major broadcasters and streaming companies. Firms like the BBC, ITV, Sky, and Warner Bros. Discovery have committed to yearly donations. Meanwhile, as of the previous summer, Channel 4, Disney, and Amazon had not committed, and Netflix declined to comment on the matter.
As of today, Channel 4 has confirmed substantial financial contributions to CIISA over the past two years and plans to register with the body, signifying continued financial support. Disney is reportedly still in constructive talks with CIISA, according to Deadline. Netflix remains silent on its funding stance, and Amazon has not responded to inquiries regarding its position.
Deadline also notes that a public register of CIISA donors is expected to launch, but not for another year or so. Furthermore, CIISA will transition to a “register model” to sustain its operations, which will allow registered organizations to promote their commitment to upholding the CIISA Standards. These standards, established last year, emphasize commitments to Safe and Inclusive Working Environments, Open and Accountable Reporting Mechanisms, and Responsive Learning Cultures.
The new stance on NDAs marks a significant advancement for CIISA. Historically, victims like those of Harvey Weinstein were silenced through NDAs. Recent UK legislation has made it illegal for employers to use NDAs to mute employees who have endured harassment and abuse.
CIISA’s leader Jen Smith expressed pride in the organization’s forward-looking strategy for the next three years, highlighting its newfound status as an independent whistleblowing entity for the film, TV, music, and theater industries. She emphasized the importance of registering with CIISA as a public declaration of commitment to eradicating harmful behaviors, with the collective aim of fostering significant positive change across the UK’s creative sectors.
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