THE BBC is launching a new “duty of care package” in the wake of Strictly’s Giovanni Pernice scandal, The Sun can reveal.
Following a series of crisis meetings, safeguards are being introduced for celebrities and dancers on the show.
Measures include on-call counsellors, cameras to film training, the offer of post-show therapy and the provision of chaperones if requested.
Psychological testing will also be implemented to ensure stars are “robust” enough to cope with the constant media and online scrutiny.
The BBC has also appointed a duty of care executive for the next year.
Training, masterclasses and webinars will be held for all reality shows.
A source said: “Strictly is the jewel in the crown of their schedule, and upwards of ten million people tune in weekly — that’s a lot of pressure for everyone involved.
“The BBC is under enormous pressure to ensure this series goes without a hitch. Cameras will be installed pretty much everywhere and a counsellor will be on call 24/7.”
Beeb director of unscripted shows, Kate Phillips, said: “The BBC takes its duty of care incredibly seriously and are always looking at ways to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of contributors.”
The revised protocols come after complaints over Gio’s training methods.
Lawyers for the dancer, 33 — who denies any wrongdoing — and several former partners are compiling evidence for a BBC probe.
Giovanni Pernice Strictly scandal timeline
October 2023: Amanda abruptly withdraws from Strictly having already missed one live show. Her departure is announced in a vague BBC statement that ‘wishes her the best’.
Giovanni posts a short message on social media addressing the exit, which read: “Amanda… I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.”
Amanda then shares her own farewell statement on Instagram thanking co-stars but failing to mention Gio.
Giovanni’s dad Piero insists there were no signs of a fall out and the pairing could have gone all the way. He praised his son as kind and polite.
November 2023: Giovanni is reportedly gutted by the situation and is considering his Strictly future as questions are raised about his conduct.
January 2024:Amanda’s PTSD diagnosis comes to light and she demands CCTV from rehearsals to prove that Giovanni’s training methods weren’t acceptable.
The BBC issues a statement defending its duty of care to contestants, insisting it takes any claims of wrongdoing very seriously.
The Corporation stands by its man after emergency meeting
March 2024: Giovanni publicly states he has no intention of leaving Strictly in a TV interview with close pal Anton du Beke.
Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore enter the picture. Allegedly the two celebs, who were both previously partnered with Giovanni on Strictly, didn’t feel the BBC took their issues with his methods seriously enough.
The pair have a closed meeting with Amanda where tears are said to be shed.
May 2024: We reveal Giovanni is leaving the programme after having talks with show bosses
He leaves the country with girlfriend Molly Brown on holiday
The BBC launches an internal investigation after three complainants instruct lawyers. A source describes it as a “nightmare situation”.