Upskilling: ABBAS Media Law Workshop - Duty of Care and Contributors

Following the tragic deaths of a number of TV contributors to high-profile TV programmes, the welfare of those taking part in programmes has come under the spotlight like never before.

Against this background and a growing number of complaints to Ofcom from viewers about the mental health and wellbeing of programme participants, in 2019 the regulator launched a review with the objectives of making sure that the welfare of people who take part in TV programmes is protected, and that audiences are protected from being caused offence arising out of concerns about participants’ welfare.

In December 2020 Ofcom completed its review, and announced it was making some significant changes to the Ofcom Broadcasting Code, changes due to come into force in April 2021.

In this workshop, Nigel Abbas, Founder and CEO of specialist TV Law Firm Abbas Media Law, will summarise the key changes to the Ofcom Broadcasting Code and explain how they affect the various stages of production, including:

• the casting and selection of contributors;
• identifying and then managing contributor duty of care risks during filming;
• responding to duty of care concerns after filming has ended and in the lead up to transmission; and
• providing appropriate post- broadcast aftercare.

Event Schedule:

16:55: Please join the meeting waiting room

17:00: Nigel Abbas to lead presentation and discussion

18:30: Finish

Nigel Abbas is the Founder and CEO of Abbas Media Law. Nigel is the company’s Head of Legal Practice and leads both the legal and compliance, and business affairs teams. He is a leading media lawyer who specialises in advising the television, film, advertising and publishing industries. His practice encompasses advice and representation to numerous broadcasters, production companies of all sizes, publishers, as well as other content producers on all aspects of the law and regulation affecting their commercial and editorial activities. Nigel is the Editor of zoom-in magazine and writes extensively on media law and related issues. He regularly delivers presentations and training to journalists and those working in the television production sector.

How will the online event work?

This event will be live streamed via Zoom.us. Viewing details will be sent via your confirmation email.

This is an interactive session and will be taking place as a Zoom meeting. Attendees should access the event using a device with audio and video functions to participate.

This event is for existing WFTV members only.

If you are not a member and would like to join, membership costs just £100 + VAT/yr, please click here or email admin@wftv.org.uk

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