BBC child protection policy
We should apply the principles of the BBC Child Protection Policy in our dealings with children and young people. In this context, children and young people refer to people under the age of 18. The welfare of someone under the age of eighteen is our paramount consideration. This means their interests and safety must take priority over any editorial requirement. All children and young people, regardless of age, disability, gender, racial or ethnic origin, religious belief and sexual identity have a right to protection from harm or abuse.
In the course of our work if we suspect a child may be at risk, or we are alerted by a young person to a child welfare issue (including allegations against BBC staff) the situation must be referred immediately to the divisional manager with responsibility for the Child Protection Policy.
Any incident of suspected "grooming" online must be referred to Executive Producer, Communities Group, New Media Central who will be responsible for reporting it to BBC Investigations and to the police.
For further details of the BBC's Child Protection Policy, visit http://home.gateway.bbc.co.uk/peoplepolicies/main.asp?page=440§ionID=5.