In her first letter to BAFTA members, incoming chair Sara Putt addressed a story that has been making headlines recently. The allegations against Russell Brand, including rape, sexual assault, and emotional abuse, were the subject of a joint investigation by The Times, The Sunday Times, and Channel 4 Dispatches. YouTube also suspended Brand’s channels after policy violations.
Brand has vehemently denied these accusations. Putt expressed concern about the culture within the screen industries: “This weekend’s news has again raised serious questions about the culture of the screen industries and what still needs to change.”
She mentioned that BAFTA supports the creation of the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA), which aims to establish an independent body for individuals working in the creative industries.
The CIISA would provide a platform for anonymous reporting of concerns, as well as mediation, advice, dispute resolution, and investigation.
In a recent statement, the CIISA stated that it is currently in advanced discussions with the UK creative industries and is developing its services and structures to prepare for its launch.
It highlighted that “The creative industries is one of the only sectors that does not have an independent place to confidentially raise concerns about behavior.”
They stated that the recent news regarding Russell Brand further emphasizes the necessity of this intervention. Putt also mentioned that BAFTA has implemented a mandatory bullying and harassment policy for UK productions participating in its film, TV, and games awards. This policy ensures a safer and more inclusive environment within the industry.
