Ofcom announces strengthened guidance around constructed reality series following MAFS UK axe

Ofcom has published strengthened guidance to broadcasters around protecting the welfare of participants on constructed reality programmes.

The advice comes after the regulator confirmed it had launched an investigation into Married at First Sight UK after receiving a complaint relating to fairness and privacy.

While Ofcom doesn't approve or ban programme formats, or restrict broadcasters' editorial freedom, it noted that "it is essential broadcasters put appropriate safeguards in place and carefully consider the welfare of people taking part in constructed reality programmes".

Under section 7 of the broadcasting code, Ofcom has included a new section relating to constructive reality shows which involve physical and/or emotional intimacy.

The guidance reads: "Our guidance emphasises that the greater the expectation for contributors to engage in physical or emotional intimacy, the greater the potential risk of harm.

"In these cases, broadcasters should consider stronger welfare protections. Broadcasters need to ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place to adequately protect participants from foreseeable risks within their control."

As summarised by the regulator, programme-makers are expected to ensure that risk assessments should reflect the realities of the format, participants in some formats may face vulnerability and being alert to the risk of harmful behaviour.

Additional advice includes enhanced welfare support measures during and post-production may needed for higher-risk formats, clear reporting and escalation procedures for welfare concerns and consent as an ongoing process, in which broadcasters should revisit contributors' informed consent where circumstances change during production.

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The strengthened guidance takes account of recommendations following an external review into the welfare on Married at First Sight UK, which led to the show being cancelled by Channel 4.

Cristina Nicolotti Squires, Ofcom’s broadcasting and media group director, 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."

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Authors

Katelyn Mensah is the Senior Entertainment Writer for Radio Times, covering all major entertainment programmes, reality TV shows and the latest hard-hitting documentaries. She previously worked at The Tab, with a focus on reality TV and showbiz news and has obtained a BA (Hons) in Journalism.