BBC apologises over shamed DJ Alex Belfield & admits ‘we simply didn’t do enough’ ahead of stalker’s prison release

THE BBC has apologised over the handling of staff welfare in relation to former radio presenter Alex Belfield.

The former Radio Leeds host – labelled the “Jimmy Savile of trolling” – tormented colleagues for years but the broadcaster admits it “didn’t do enough”.

PAEx-BBC presenter Alex Belfield[/caption]

The DJ was jailed for five years and 26 weeks in September 2022 over a campaign of stalking which saw him target two BBC presenters, a videographer and a theatre blogger.

It was made clear during sentencing that he would only serve half of his term in prison and the rest on licence – meaning he’ll be freed in June this year.

Today the BBC has released a statement saying it is “unacceptable for anyone to be the target of sustained abuse” in the way Belfield’s victims Rozina Breen, Elizabeth Green, Stephanie Hirst and Helen Thomas were “over a number of years”.

It continued: “The BBC cares deeply about the welfare of its staff and we recognise that before 2019 we simply didn’t do enough for these members of staff in understanding the full impact that Alex Belfield’s unacceptable behaviour had on them.

“For that we are deeply sorry and offer a full and unreserved apology.

“Abuse – particularly on social media – presents lots of challenges for employers and we all need to keep learning and implement the best practice on how we can support our staff.

“That’s why the BBC has an online abuse guidance and reporting tool – which today provides all staff with information and support on how to address and combat online abuse.

“The BBC has also expanded its mental wellbeing resources and strengthened our internal investigative capabilities.

“We are significantly better equipped to manage these issues now and in the future, but we will never be complacent.”