Checking contributors
We should make checks to establish the credentials of our contributors and to avoid being "hoaxed". The precise nature of these checks should be appropriate to the nature and significance of their contribution and the genre.
We should consider whether it is appropriate to make more in depth checks about people who are the main subject of, or who are to make a significant contribution to, the programme. This may include ensuring they are interviewed and if necessary checked by, more than one member of the production team using a combination of the following:
- documentary evidence to validate their identity and story.
- corroboration from people other than those suggested by the contributor.
- self declaration of personal information which may bring the BBC into disrepute, for example, criminal convictions or political affiliation. Asking some contributors to consent to a Criminal Records Bureau check may also be considered.