Ofcom strengthens reality show welfare guidance

The update comes after rape and sexual assault allegations raised against participants in Channel 4’s Married At First Sight in the BBC’s Panorama programme earlier this year.  

The update to the broadcasting code emphasises that the greater the expectation for contributors to engage in physical or emotional intimacy, the greater the potential risk of harm.

It said risk assessments should reflect the realities of the format. Its guidance includes a risk matrix for constructed reality formats involving physical and/or emotional intimacy to help broadcasters in making these judgements. 

Ofcom said particular care is needed where participants unused to a public profile take part in formats in which they’re exposed to conflict, emotional pressure, sensitive personal disclosures, or expectations around physical intimacy. 

Broadcasters need to be alert to risks around the establishment of “new” relationships that might lead to harmful behaviours amongst participants, such as sexual misconduct or coercive control. It said advance background checks are encouraged to identify behaviours that could place other participants at risk.

According to Ofcom, enhanced welfare support measures could include access to clearly identifiable and appropriately trained welfare teams who are independent of editorial staff, and opportunities for contributors to contact family and friends outside filming. 

It suggested that a dedicated point of contact for a reasonable period after transmission to help address any ongoing welfare concerns should also be considered. 

Production companies and broadcasters should also reportedly have defined routes for handling welfare concerns, including referrals to external authorities in case of serious allegations.

Comprehensive records of welfare incidents, reports of harm and any actions taken should be kept, helping to identify patterns of behaviour and inform future decisions. Participants should also be informed of their right to complain to Ofcom following broadcast. 

Cristina Nicolotti Squires, Broadcasting, Media Group Director, Ofcom, said: "Constructed reality shows are enjoyed by millions of viewers, but it is vital for broadcasters to ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect the people taking part. 

“Our strengthened guidance will help ensure that the potential risks to participants' welfare are properly considered and addressed by programme-makers – before, during, and after production." 

Channel 4 recently axed its hit reality series Married at First Sight UK (MAFS UK), following an external review of the show’s contributor welfare. Discover more here.