Disgraced entertainer Jimmy Saville.
Disgraced entertainer Jimmy Savile

More than 850 staff members have raised concerns about an "abusive management culture", sexual harassment and bullying at the BBC in the wake of the Jimmy Savile scandal.

Private consultants have been contacted by scores of employees after being called in to undertake a review of the BBC's workplace culture. The review followed revelations that former TV host and DJ Savile had sexually abused children on BBC premises.

In an internal email Lucy Adams, the BBC's director of human resources, told staff that the testimony is often "uncomfortable to hear.

"Over 850 of you got in touch one way or another and gave your thoughts on respect, behaviour and culture at the BBC today, including issues such as harassment (including sexual harassment) and bullying," wrote Adams.

Staff have been holding one-to-one meetings with consultancy Change Associates, and also outlining complaints, including allegations of bullying and sexual harassment through emails, which can be left anonymous. The information is forwarded to barrister Dinah Rose, QC, who is leading the review.

One BBC insider toldThe Independent: "These are people with real stories and details of harassment and bullying who are living with the scars of an abusive management culture."

A BBC spokesperson said: ""We have recognised the need to take a serious and thorough look at the issues of sexual harassment and bullying.

"We will be publishing our Respect at Work report prepared with the assistance of Dinah Rose, QC, and also our review of the BBC child protection and whistle-blowing policies in the spring."