The BBC has become the focus of a bullying investigation after it emerged it called in a corporate law firm to examine concerns raised by staff.

The organisation's regional head of HR revealed the allegations in an email sent to colleagues in November last year "relating to the culture within our teams based in Tunbridge Wells".

She later booked out a meeting room in the town's Hotel du Vin where staff met with a senior associate from legal practice Hill Dickinson, communications obtained by KentOnline reveal.

An email sent after Christmas said a report on the allegations had been completed and said staff would get a further update "when it is appropriate to share progress and relevant outcomes more widely".

The email, dated November 20 last year, said: "You may be aware that a number of concerns have been raised in recent months, both informally and formally, relating to the culture within our teams based in Tunbridge Wells.

"To date these have been explored in the most appropriate way based on individual wishes.

"However at the end of October I was made aware of more concerns relating to bullying and harassment.

"We take such allegations very seriously."

The email continued: "I appreciate that some individuals may feel fearful of coming forward, and worry about potential repercussions but I would like to reassure you that we will ensure your concerns are handled with sensitivity and respect and that you will not be victimised for coming forward."

The communication outlined the BBC's in-house Support at Work team had been approached, as well as case manager Charlotte Hart, a senior associate at corporate law firm Hill Dickinson.

Ms Hart met with staff one-on-one at the corporation's offices in Tunbridge Wells in November and again over two days at Hotel du Vin.

Another email also revealed a counsellor was available to staff over two days.

A later email sent to staff after Christmas to update them on the "fact finding exercise" in Tunbridge Wells, confirming a report had been completed.

It said: "We are now looking at recommendations."

The BBC declined to comment.