Corporation Issues Apology After Inquiry Finds Missed Opportunities to Address Complaints

The BBC has admitted it did not adequately respond to concerns regarding the conduct of former Radio 1 DJ Tim Westwood, acknowledging it “failed people” by missing chances to take action.

An independent review led by barrister Gemma White identified multiple occasions where the organisation could have intervened but did not. The corporation has now issued a formal apology, stating that while the investigation did not uncover widespread knowledge of allegations related to predatory behaviour, it did reveal instances where the BBC overlooked opportunities to act.

“The organisation let people down – including our own employees – who deserved better from us,” the statement read. “The Board takes this moment to apologise on behalf of the entire BBC to anyone affected by these findings. Your voices have been heard, and this review will help drive change to prevent similar situations in the future.”

Westwood, 67, faced allegations of historical sexual misconduct from multiple women in a 2022 joint investigation by The Guardian and the BBC. He has consistently denied all claims of inappropriate behaviour.

The Metropolitan Police is continuing its investigation into offences allegedly committed between 1982 and 2016. Westwood has been questioned under caution on several occasions.

The review also found that Westwood declined to participate in the inquiry, citing the ongoing police investigation. Through his legal team, he rejected claims that his actions amounted to bullying or harassment, instead suggesting that some individuals had treated him unfairly.

Several people who came forward with allegations said they feared not being believed or being blamed for his behaviour due to his popularity. The report highlighted that many only recognised later in life that what they experienced was inappropriate or even constituted sexual misconduct.

Additional testimonies described instances of Westwood giving some BBC production team members the “silent treatment” and causing distress among staff. Witnesses reported seeing colleagues in tears due to his behaviour.

In 2022, the BBC confirmed it had received six complaints about Westwood, including one referred by the police, after initially stating it had no record of concerns about him.

For those in need of support, Rape Crisis offers confidential and independent assistance to survivors of sexual violence. More information is available on their official website.