Expanded rules set to protect show participants

MEDIA watchdog Ofcom has revised and expanded the proposed set of rules to protect the welfare of participants on TV and radio shows.

The regulator is currently consulting over changes to the Broadcasting Code, which will safeguard participants in reality shows, documentaries, talent contests and other forms of factual and entertainment programmes.

Ofcom published an initial consultation in July 2019, proposing two new rules.

However, following further consultation with former programme participants, psychiatrists and psychologists, broadcasters, academics and other professionals, it has decided to offer a revised set of suggestions.

A 29-page report published yesterday proposes the expansion of Section 7 of the Code, about Fairness and Privacy, and the creation of a “risk matrix” to help broadcasters assess what level of care participants might need.

It comes after broadcasters faced increased scrutiny following the deaths of former Love Island contestants Sophie Gradon and Mike Thalassitis, and The Jeremy Kyle Show guest Steve Dymond.

Section 7.3 of the Code already sets out the measures broadcasters must take in obtaining “informed consent” from participants.

However, the report proposes that it should “clarify that obtaining informed consent includes letting programme participants know about potential harms or negative impacts (insofar as these can be reasonably anticipated at the time), and any steps that broadcasters and/or programmemakers intend to take to mitigate these”.

It also suggests the addition of a new practice, 7.15, requiring broadcasters “to ensure due care is provided to ‘vulnerable people’ and those who are at risk of harm as a result of taking part in a programme”.

Broadcasters must take into account the person’s circumstances, the nature of their contribution, and the nature and genre of the programme.

A final decision is expected in summer.