BBC’s decision on Stonewall withdrawal hugely disappointing

The recent announcement that the BBC is withdrawing from Stonewall’s diversity champion scheme is extremely disappointing and will negatively effect the LGBT+ workforce.

BBC Broadcasting House, London

Head of Bectu Philippa Childs says:

“As the largest union at the BBC, Bectu is a firm champion of editorial impartiality and robust debate on complex issues. Equally important are the hard-won rights of under-represented workers to campaign for representation and media diversity. Independent, impartial news along with freedom of expression and employment rights are all integral parts of a modern, liberal democracy of which the BBC and other broadcasters play a critical part.

“Many of our members will be hugely disappointed by the BBC’s decision to withdraw from the Diversity Champions Programme and we will be raising our concerns at the highest level. We are especially concerned that this decision will be incredibly damaging to the morale of the LGBT+ workforce and will negatively impact the BBC’s ability to attract talent in the future.”