Particle.news
Download on the App Store

BBC Tests 'Screen Skills' Training With Language Guidance for Freelancers

The BBC says the freelancer pilot remains under review, not mandatory for staff.

Overview

  • Recent reports describe training materials that advise avoiding terms such as "mate," "sweetheart" and "silver fox," with examples of microaggressions including remarks about accents or curly hair.
  • The pilot is presented as a 60‑minute annual passport with a multiple‑choice assessment covering tackling harassment, bullying and safeguarding.
  • A BBC spokesperson told outlets the Screen Skills training is not a staff requirement, stating the pilot’s content is being reviewed with industry partners.
  • Documents cited by The Sun list recommended reading including Robin DiAngelo’s White Fragility and Reni Eddo‑Lodge’s Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race.
  • Anonymous production workers quoted in coverage allege freelancers were pressured to complete the course to secure work, reflecting concerns over enforcement and workplace language.