Confidential phone line opened in Tim Westwood alleged sexual misconduct investigation

Content warning: this article includes accounts of sexual assault and may be distressing for some readers.

A new confidential phone line has been opened as part of the investigation into former BBC Radio 1 DJ Tim Westwood’s alleged sexual misconduct.

Anyone with information or concerns about Westwood’s sexual conduct in the past are encouraged to come forwards, where they can share their information anonymously and confidentially, according to the BBC.

The line will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with callers directed to safeguarding expert Jahnine Davis, or Gemma White KC, who is leading an external inquiry into what the BBC knew about Westwood’s conduct while employed by the corporation.

Multiple allegations of misconduct have been made against Westwood, which were first reported after a joint investigation by the BBC and The Guardian. Seven women claimed that Westwood had abused them, including flashing and groping them, with some claiming that they were under 18 at the time when it happened.

Westwood denies the claims, and no arrests have been made.

A further 10 women reported allegations later, with once claiming that she was 14 years old when Westwood had sex with her on multiple occasions.

He has since been questioned twice under police caution, and is currently under investigation for five separate alleged sex offences, which took place in London between 1982 and 2016.

It is not known whether those who came forward to speak to The Guardian and BBC reported their allegations to the police.

Westwood was a long-running radio broadcaster and DJ, known for presenting the UK’s first nationally broadcast rap and hip hop show. At the time of the allegations surfacing, he presented a regular slot of Capital Xtra, which he stepped down from in April 2022.

AFEM sponsor a confidential support service for anyone affected by sexual harassment within the Electronic Music Industry
Health Assured provide the service to ensure confidential expert counselling
A safe and supportive environment for anyone who has been affected and needs guidance and support
Call 0800 030 5182, (Outside the UK: +44 800 030 5182) where trained experts will listen and support.

Isaac Muk is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow him on Twitter