In response to a series of alarming incidents concerning bullying and sexual harassment within the UK’s film and television sectors, the recently established Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA) is taking proactive steps to ensure the safety and professionalism of these creative spaces. This initiative follows the unfortunate case of high-profile figures such as Gregg Wallace, whose alleged misconduct has reignited discussions around industry standards and accountability.
CIISA is poised to create comprehensive standards aimed at fostering a safer work environment across all creative domains. By seeking input from industry stakeholders through a consultation process, which closes on January 27, the authority hopes to develop fundamental guidelines for acceptable behavior. The proposed standards are designed to be scalable, allowing productions of all sizes to adopt them and uphold a unified standard of conduct. This systematic approach seeks to address the disparities in workplace behavior and ensure that all members of the creative industries can work in safe and inclusive environments.
The CIISA’s formation and its standards initiative come in the wake of several high-profile allegations against prominent figures in the media. The recent accusations against Wallace, including claims of making inappropriate comments over a lengthy period, illustrate the urgent need for a cultural shift in how such behaviors are addressed. Furthermore, other incidents involving various hosts and presenters from major networks underscore the seriousness of this predicament. For instance, the dismissal of Jermaine Jenas from the BBC for inappropriate messaging and Graziano Di Prima’s admission of violent behavior during ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ rehearsals highlight systemic issues that CIISA aims to rectify.
Niyi Akeju, the Head of Standards Development at CIISA, emphasizes the importance of collaboration in this endeavor. The organization has engaged with crucial industry bodies across film, television, theater, and music to gather insights and inputs for a framework that reflects a collective vision for professional standards. This collaborative strategy not only legitimizes the standards being set but also ensures they are relevant and enforceable.
Despite its promising initiatives, CIISA is still in the process of launching its anonymous reporting line due to funding challenges. The organization has garnered support from influential figures such as Keira Knightley, Emerald Fennell, and Gemma Chan, who lend their voices to advocate for meaningful change in the industry. Moving forward, the CIISA plans to utilize the feedback garnered from the consultation to establish benchmarks that measure the industry’s commitment to creating safe environments for all employees.
As the UK’s creative industries grapple with a renewed focus on accountability, CIISA stands as a beacon of hope for establishing a culture of respect and professionalism. By introducing comprehensive standards and fostering open dialogue among industry players, the authority is taking crucial steps toward safeguarding against misconduct and ensuring a healthier workplace culture for all those involved in the arts and entertainment sectors. The coming months will be pivotal for CIISA as it finalizes its guidelines and implements measures to assess and uphold these new standards across the industry.