Ofcom is the regulatory body for the communications sector in the United Kingdom, including television and radio. It aims to ensure a range of high quality programming for different audiences while protecting viewers from harmful content. Ofcom enforces broadcasting codes that restrict adult and offensive content, especially before the watershed at 9pm, and prevent the glamorization of issues like suicide. Repeat or deliberate breaches of these codes can result in sanctions against broadcasters, such as channels being taken off air.

2. Who are they? Regulate TV and radio sectors Government approved Act in the interests of consumers and citizens (communications act 2003) Funded through stakeholders and grant funding

3. Legal Duties Ensure there’s a high quality range of TV and radio programmes for different tastes and interests TV and radio services provided by different organisations Protect audiences from harmful and offensive material

4. Broadcasting code They protect under 18’s, for example the watershed, which includes not showing adult content before 9pm. (Substance abuse, sexual scenes, violence and offensive language.) Also includes protecting the audience from harm/offence, eg not glamorising suicide.

5. If a broadcaster breaches the broadcasting code repeatedly or deliberately, Ofcom has the right to sanction them. The ‘Ummah’ channel was taken off air for allowing religious derogatory and offensive language about those who have been persecuted to be broadcasted