Yahoo Sports ITV issues statement after Caroline Flack's mum condemns Schofield exit
This article contains discussion of suicide that some readers might find upsetting.
ITV has released a statement after Caroline Flack's mother publicly commented on Phillip Schofield's first interview since his explosive exit from This Morning.
In his interview with the BBC, Schofield spoke about the intense press and social media attention he has received and the toll it has taken on his mental health. He also mentioned the late presenter Caroline Flack, referring to the discussion about her assault charge in the weeks leading up to her suicide.
Related: This Morning announces co-host for Holly Willoughby's return
Flack's mother Christine appeared on Newsnight following Schofield's interview, where she also compared what is going on now to then, and criticised ITV for leaving its staff out to dry.
"They haven't learned anything. They haven't," she told Victoria Derbyshire. "They treat them as commodities. I know it's a lovely job and they earn money. But also the television stations earn money from them.
"But they're not commodities, they're people. And they're employed. And if my employer didn't take care of me, there'd be all hell to pay. And there's not. They're just sidelined, and they're not protected. They could have someone speaking for him really, whether he did right or wrong. And even his agent, and all his friends. It's not a good look really."
Following those comments, ITV issued a statement that reads: "The relationships we have with those we work with are based on trust. Phillip made assurances to us and his agency which he now acknowledges were untrue and we feel badly let down.
Related: British Soap Awards announces new host to replace Phillip Schofield
"As a producer and broadcaster, ITV takes its responsibilities around Duty of Care seriously and has robust and well established processes in place to support the mental and physical health of employees and all those we work with."
After initially stating that Schofield would remain with the channel to present the British Soap Awards and another primetime show, the presenter is now no longer employed at the channel or associated with his former agency.
We encourage anyone who identifies with the topics raised in this article to reach out. Information about how to access support is available via the NHS, and organisations who can offer help include Samaritans on 116 123 or Mind on 0300 123 3393.
Readers in the US are encouraged to visit mentalhealth.gov or the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
You Might Also Like
