What content has to comply with the Ofcom Broadcasting Code?
All broadcast output is regulated i.e. programmes (whether commissioned or acquired), trailers for programmes, advertisements, continuity announcements, and any text service e.g. 4-Tel. In addition, Channel 4 and Five expect any new media output (e.g. online and interactive services etc.) to adhere to the same standards of good practice as our programmes.
The Code applies to all radio services and programmes and so any programme- maker or editor working on a radio programme should read 'listener' for 'viewer'.
In the Code itself, Ofcom acknowledges the importance of freedom of expression - both freedom for the broadcaster to be creative and for audience choice - but points out that with those rights come duties and responsibilities. In particular, those responsibilities include the need to ensure people make informed viewing choices and that appropriate protections, especially for younger viewers, are in place.
The Code has 10 sections:
- Protecting the under 18s;
- Harm and offence;
- Crime;
- Religion;
- Due impartiality and due accuracy and undue prominence of views and opinions;
- Elections and referendums;
- Fairness;
- Privacy;
- Sponsorship; and
- Commercial references and other matters.
Each section contains a number of "Principles" and "Rules" with the Fairness and Privacy sections containing a set of "practices to be followed".
The Code does not try to address each and every situation that might arise in the making and broadcasting of television and radio programmes but, rather, sets out principles and rules in order to help broadcasters (with programme-makers) make the necessary judgments themselves. In addition, from time-to-time, Ofcom publishes and regularly updates guidance on areas of the Code on its website at www.ofcom.org.uk . This Handbook incorporates that guidance at the time of publication where appropriate.