As a major funder of Tyneside Cinema we are taking the recent allegations on social media extremely seriously. Our concern is first and foremost with anyone who has experienced abuse, and the bravery it takes to confront abuse and speak out. Nobody should feel unsafe in their workplace, and we expect all our partners to uphold this essential principle, underlined in the guidance and principles we drew up with BAFTA and partners across the industry to tackle and prevent bullying and harassment in the screen industries.
In our position as funder, we want to ensure this matter is being dealt with in a sensitive, responsible and timely manner; that any allegations made are fully and thoroughly investigated, and that Tyneside’s duty of care to their employees has been — and continues to be — their priority. We have been explicitly clear with Tyneside that we expect a fully transparent and robust independent enquiry, and if we find any of their processes to have been lacking, we will address that with them as a matter of urgency and take decisive action if necessary. Until the enquiry is concluded, we have asked Tyneside Cinema to temporarily step back from its role in the leadership of Film Hub North, including current line management responsibilities.
Ben Luxford, BFI’s Head of UK Audiences
For anyone who has faced similar issues, here is a list of organisations for support and advice:
Bullying and harassment prevention for the screen industries
The principles and guidance for tackling and preventing bullying and harassment in the screen industries, including organisations, cinemas/venues and productions. Commissioned by the BFI and supported by organisations across the UK.
Film and TV Charity Support Line
Free and confidential support, including legal advice, from the Film and TV Charity on 0800 054 0000 open 24/7 and free live chat service.
For advice about sexual harassment at work:
Services for women:
NHS
Sexual Abuse Referral Centres — Find a SARC
Sexual violence is a crime, no matter who commits it or where it happens. Don’t be afraid to get help.
SARCs are specialist medical and forensic services for anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted. They aim to be one-stop service, providing the following under one roof: medical care and forensic examination following assault/rape and, in some locations, sexual health services. Medical Services are free of charge and provided to women, men, young people and children.
Rape Crisis
Helpline: 0808 802 9999 (12:00-14:30 and 19:00-21:30)
National organisation offering support and counselling for those affected by rape and sexual abuse.
See website for local groups or contact directory enquiries.
Victim Support
Supportline: 0333 300 6389
Our services are confidential, free and available to anyone who’s been raped or sexually assaulted, now or in the past. We can help, regardless of whether you have told the police or anyone else about the attack. Our volunteers can visit you at home (if you want us to, and if doing so will not put you at further risk) or somewhere else if you prefer. If you don’t want to see anyone face-to-face, you can also talk to us on the phone, either at one of our local offices or at the national Victim Supportline.
Women Against Rape
This is the joint website of Women Against Rape and Black Women’s Rape Action Project. Both organisations are based on self-help and provide support, legal information and advocacy. We campaign for justice and protection for all women and girls, including asylum seekers, who have suffered sexual, domestic and/or racist violence.
The Survivors Trust Helpline: 0808 801 0818
Rape and sexual abuse can happen to anyone regardless of their age, gender, race, religion, culture or social status. Living with the consequences of rape and sexual abuse can be devastating. We believe that all survivors are entitled to receive the best possible response to their needs whether or not they choose to report.
Women’s Aid Federation
National Domestic Violence Helpline (24hrs): 0808 2000 247
Women’s Aid is the national domestic violence charity that helps up to 250,000 women and children every year. We work to end violence against women and children, and support over 500 domestic and sexual violence services across the country.
Services for men:
Survivors UK — Male Rape and Sexual Abuse Support
If you have been subjected to male rape or sexual abuse, one of your biggest challenges will be taking the decision to talk to someone. At Survivors UK we know this can seem an enormous and daunting step. Anxiety and fear are among the most common emotions experienced by the abused. But these feelings do become easier and people can, and do, successfully go on to explore their past and its links with today in making sense of recurring problems. We offer emotional support by our Chat Service and SMS and we’ll do our best to point you in the right direction.
Rape Crisis
Helpline: 0808 802 9999 (12:00-14:30 and 19:00-21:30)
National Organisation offering support and counselling for those affected by rape and sexual abuse.
Many Rape Crisis Centres provide support services for men and boys who have experienced sexual violence, as a child and/or as an adult. Rape Crisis Centres that do not provide services for men or boys will be able to give you information about relevant support organisations. See website for local groups or contact directory enquiries.