Our Responsibilities
The BBC have a moral and legal obligation to ensure that those who come into contact with children or vulnerable adults as part of their role (including, but not limited to: Staff (including freelancers), chaperones, parents/legal guardians, volunteers and third parties) accept their responsibilities to safeguard these vulnerable individuals from harm and abuse.
This means to ensure that everyone follows procedures to protect children and vulnerable adults, and feel empowered to report any concerns about their welfare to the appropriate person for preventative action.
Definition of a Child (UK)
In the UK, a person is legally described as a child until they reach the age of 18 years old.
(The Children Act, 1989 - paragraph 16, schedule 1).
Code of Conduct
We recognise that the “entertainment industry” can be a very “adult” environment and we expect that all staff, chaperones, parents/legal guardians, volunteers and anyone else who comes into contact with children behave in an appropriate manner at all times, and remember that “The Welfare of the Child is Paramount”.
In order to support appropriate behaviour when working with children and vulnerable adults, the BBC implements a safeguarding 'Code of Conduct' which all adults engaged by, or on behalf of, the BBC must adhere to (Copies can be downloaded by clicking on the button below).
BBC Safeguarding Code of Conduct
1. Always prioritise the safety of the child or vulnerable adult at all times.
2. Always act within professional boundaries - ensure all contact with children and vulnerable adults is essential to the project you are working on. If you are using personal equipment, ensure appropriate security and deletion processes are in place.
3. Remember - they are children first, contributors or participants second.
4. NEVER give out your personal details; do not friend or follow children or vulnerable adults you are working with on social media.
5. Do not assume sole responsibility for a child or vulnerable adult and only take on practical caring responsibilities in an emergency. If a child needs care, alert the Chaperone (or parent/guardian if present).
6. Never lose sight of the fact you are with children - behave appropriately and use suitable language at all times.
7. Listen to and respect children and vulnerable adults at all times; don't patronise them and avoid favouritism.
8. Treat children and vulnerable adults fairly, and without prejudice or discrimination.
9. If you observe children or vulnerable adults engaging in bullying behaviour, or other behaviour may put them or others at risk, you MUST report it immediately to your SPOC, BBC Commissioner or the BBC Safeguarding Team.
10. If you have any concerns about the welfare of a child or vulnerable adult, or feel someone is behaving inappropriately around a child - you have a duty to report your concerns. It is not OK to do nothing.
Legislation and Guidance
The BBC will discharge it's legal and moral obligations by operating within identified boundaries, as outlined below:
- The Ofcom Broadcasting Code
- The Children's Act 1989 & 2004
- The Children and Young Person's Act 1963
- Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
- Working Together to Safeguarding Children 2023
- The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child
England
Wales
- The Children (Performances and Activities) (Wales) Regulations 2015
- Keeping Young Performers Safe (Welsh Guidance)
Northern Ireland
- The Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995
- Children (Public Performances) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1996
Scotland
