Strictly Come Dancing Junior Crew Allege Verbal Abuse and Toxic Culture on Set

Recently, a number of celebrities have complained about how they were treated during their time on the popular Strictly Come Dancing. However, it would seem that their treatment was nothing compared with that experienced by junior staff working on the show. Read on to find out more about the “toxic culture” behind the scenes and the potential legal implications of such conduct in the workplace.

What Are the Allegations About Strictly Come Dancing?

Complaints of celebrity contestants, including Amanda Abbington, Zara McDermott, and Laura Whitmore, first focused the spotlight on controversy on the Strictly Come Dancing set. Paralympian Will Bayley has also spoken of the pressure he felt to do a jump, resulting in his injury. Yet these complaints dim in light of new allegations of junior staff working on the show.

BBC News recently interviewed 15 current and former members of staff about their experiences of working on the show. The picture that they painted is one of verbal abuse and toxic culture. Junior members of staff (or “runners”) recall being screamed at, insulted, and feeling unable to raise complaints.

One runner tells a story of being shouted at by a celebrity when he flew into a rage. “He was shouting and he was so close up in my face, I had to close my eyes as his spit flecks were hitting me,” he remembers. He described the effects of the treatment, saying he was unable to sleep or eat.

Former runners have confided similar experiences. One said that working on the show was “exhausting”, while others were told they were “lucky to be on the show”. One common theme is the fear of career repercussions if any complaints were raised. One runner explained that the show’s priority was “all about the glitz and glamour and no care for those making the show.”

Responses to the Strictly Come Dancing Abuse Allegations

Other members of staff have expressed surprise and dismay about the allegations of verbal abuse. One choreographer denies ever having experienced such treatment whilst working on the show. She adds, “…I love them, and they are very kind and respect me lots.”

A beautician had a similar response, expressing “shock” at the allegations. As a result of the complaints of verbal abuse on the show, she said she was “a bit apprehensive” about returning.

BBC Studios have denied any wrongdoing but have said that they are sorry that staff members did not feel able to speak up about such issues as verbal abuse. “We proactively encourage everyone on set to raise concerns of inappropriate behaviour via several avenues, including anonymously to an external third-party whistleblowing service,” they stated.

BBC Director General, Tim Davie, has confirmed that the Strictly Come Dancing show will return as planned in autumn. A current staff member was unsurprised but has stated that “there needs to be change. It can’t go on like this.”

What Is a Toxic Culture in the Workplace?

A toxic workplace culture is one in which negativity pervades conduct, attitudes, and practices. It typically involves conflicts and/or microaggressions, no effective communication, and a general lack of respect. Toxic cultures can have a significant impact on staff well being, productivity, and morale. Feelings of fear, mistrust, and insecurity are prevalent in such environments, with employees feeling unable to express their concerns.

According to research conducted by Oak Engage, 75% of UK workers reported having experienced a toxic workplace culture. 87% of these said that their mental health was affected and 61% actually resigned as a result. 73% of workers who had experienced burnout blamed a toxic workplace culture as a contributory factor.

Employers should be vigilant to signs of a toxic culture developing in their workplace. These might include excessive negativity, poor communication, and increased conflicts. Red flags which may indicate the effects of toxic culture may also be present. These may consist of decreased productivity, increased stress levels, team divisions, and absenteeism or lateness.

It will be important for employers to act quickly if they identify a potentially toxic culture at work. The negative effects of such a culture can have a huge impact on both employees and businesses as a whole. Encouraging an open, supportive environment, expressing gratitude for positive conduct, and taking a firm stance against the negative should all help address the issue.

Potential Legal Implications of a Toxic Workplace Culture

It is clear that a toxic workplace culture creates an unpleasant environment and impacts employees’ wellbeing. However, the effects can be far more serious from a legal point of view. Certain behaviours can constitute workplace bullying or harassment at work, which are unlawful under the Equality Act 2010.

Workplace bullying can comprise various behaviours including “the use of force, threat, or coercion to abuse, intimidate, or aggressively dominate others”. Similarly, harassment comprises unwanted conduct that violates a person’s dignity. This would certainly include verbal abuse of the type described by the Strictly Come Dancing junior staff

Workplace bullying can also constitute harassment if it meets the relevant definition. Whether harassment breaches the Equality Act depends on the circumstances of the situation, how the person receiving the treatment views it, and whether it is reasonable for them to view it this way.

What Can Employees Do if They Are Experiencing Bullying or Harassment?

Initially, it is generally advisable for employees experiencing bullying or harassment at work to attempt to resolve the issue internally. Speaking with managers or HR and explaining the situation can result in helpful advice. Raising an informal or formal grievance with the employer should also be considered.

If none of these options help, employees may be able to bring a claim against their employer and the individual conducting the bullying or harassment. It is always advisable to seek legal advice before proceeding with this route.

If you believe you have experienced workplace bullying or harassment at work, Redmans Solicitors are here to help. Our team of sympathetic and approachable experts will be pleased to discuss your situation and advise how you should proceed.

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