Hollyoaks producer Lime Pictures has announced it will appoint an external values board and welfare officers following recent allegations of racism.
Liverpool-based Lime will appoint a ‘values board’ comprising a group of external appointees that will set targets and meet quarterly with management to review action and make sure progress is being made.
A cast liaison support role will also be created on both Hollyoaks and Towie, along with a dedicated welfare executive officer for each show.
The move follows accusations of racism from Hollyoaks actress Rachel Adedeji and Towie cast member Vas J Morgan.
Lime said the incidents had been “investigated thoroughly” and that “appropriate action is being taken”. However, the appointment of an external board will counter allegations that the producer is keeping action and investigations ‘in-house’.
“Management accountability is key to reassuring [staff] that we deal with issues fairly and appropriately,” Lime said in a 17-page inclusivity action plan put together by Managing Directors Claire Poyser and Kate Little.
“Together we must improve and learn from our mistakes. Our culture must evolve, empowering people to have the confidence to challenge and speak out where things are not right.”
Lime is also reviewing its disciplinary, grievance, anti-bullying and harassment policies and pushing to ‘improve authenticity’ across its portfolio of shows, which include Geordie Shore, Celebs Go Dating and Netflix drama Free Rein.
A Caribbean cultural advisor has been engaged for Hollyoaks and ideas are being forged for a writer’s scheme to support BAME writers.
