THE BBC is launching a new “duty of care package” in the wake of Strictly’s Giovanni Pernice scandal, The Sun can reveal. Following a series of crisis meetings , safeguards are being introduced for celebrities and dancers on the show. Measures include on-call counsellors, cameras to film training , the offer of post-show therapy and the provision of chaperones if requested.
Psychological testing will also be implemented to ensure stars are “robust” enough to cope with the constant media and online scrutiny. The BBC has also appointed a duty of care executive for the next year. Training, masterclasses and webinars will be held for all reality shows.
A source said: “Strictly is the jewel in the crown of their schedule, and upwards of ten million people tune in weekly — that’s a lot of pressure for everyone involved. “The BBC is under enormous pressure to ensure this series goes without a hitch. Cameras will be installed pretty much everywhere and a counsellor will be on call 24/7.
” Beeb director of unscripted shows, Kate Phillips, said: “The BBC takes its duty of care incredibly seriously and are always looking at ways to ensure the health , safety and wellbeing of contributors.” The revised protocols come after complaints over Gio’s training methods. Lawyers for the dancer , 33 — who denies any wrongdoing — and several former partners are compiling evidence for a BBC probe.
October 2023 : Amanda abruptly withdraws from Strictly having already mi.
