BBC bosses announce huge Strictly change and crackdown as Amanda Abbington scores big win

The BBC has announced a major change to its "workplace culture" after the shocking bullying claims made by Amanda Abbington and the fallout from the Strictly bullying scandal

The BBC has pledged to stamp out "abusive behaviour" in a significant victory for Amanda Abbington after the Strictly bullying row. The broadcaster today initiated an inquiry into its "workplace culture" with the goal of clamping down on "abuse of power".

This move comes after an extensive investigation into allegations made by the Sherlock star Amanda Abbington of "cruel and mean behaviour" from her dance partner Giovanni Pernice, which he strongly refuted, causing turmoil for the hit series.

Although the BBC did extend an apology to Amanda last month, they exonerated Giovanni of the most severe charges. BBC Chair Samir Shah stated: "I cannot emphasise enough that I am fully committed to tackling inappropriate or abusive behaviour. For most of us it is a joy to work for the BBC and that should be the case for everyone.

"Nobody working in the BBC should ever feel fear or worry while working here.", reports the Express. "What is clear to me is that we must ensure the BBC is a safe, secure and welcoming workplace for everyone."

The BBC's investigation is designed to "ensure the consequences of inappropriate behaviour and abuse of power are understood by everyone". A spokesperson announced that the corporation plans to release a report by next spring.

The results of the investigation into Amanda's bullying claims were disclosed in September, with the explosive findings coming out just as the new season of Strictly began. The much-loved dance show resumed in September without Giovanni, following his departure from the programme in May.

The BBC has made it clear that they take any claims of bullying and harassment with the utmost seriousness, stressing that the investigation into Amanda Abbington's allegations was thorough due to "due to its complex nature" and the need for "a rigorous and robust process". The broadcaster's report confirmed six out of 17 complaints against professional dancer Giovanni Pernice, as reported by the Mail.

However, it was also concluded that there was no aggressive or physical interaction between Giovanni and Amanda. "We have assessed the complaints and we have upheld some, but not all, of the complaints made," the BBC stated.

They extended an apology to Amanda Abbington and expressed gratitude for her courage in speaking up, acknowledging the difficulty of her actions. "We want to apologise to Amanda Abbington and to thank her for coming forward and taking part. We know this would not have been an easy thing to do."

The Sherlock star described the BBC's apology as a "vindication" for her complaint and expressed hope that it would encourage others to feel "more confident" in being heard.

Giovanni responded with relief to the findings, particularly pleased that the more severe accusations of threatening and abusive behaviour "were found not to be true". Amanda had left the show last October, revealing that she had been diagnosed with PTSD after her experience on Strictly.

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