Ofcom Guidelines

Ofcom are responsible for licensing all UK commercial television and radio services.

These include:

• the existing TV channels and radio stations;
• digital TV services such as Freeview, Sky and Virgin Media and all digital radio stations;
• internet TV services such as Home Choice;
• Public Teletext and Restricted Service Licences for both TV and radio; and
• Community radio.

Ofcom's Broadcasting Code sets out rules which television and radio broadcasters must follow. The code aims to set standards to protect people under the age of 18 from material that is not suitable for them, while allowing broadcasters an appropriate amount of creative freedom.

Their aim is to maintain and strengthen the UK’s high-quality public service broadcasting. They make sure a broad range of television programmes are made - and by independent producers as well as by broadcasters, including those in countries and regions in the UK.

Visit the Ofcom website for full details and advice.