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A parents’ group representing more than 650 families is threatening legal action over what it claims is “dangerous” BBC coverage of transgender issues that could put vulnerable children at risk of copycat suicide.
The Bayswater Support Group has sent a formal pre-action letter warning that unless action is taken within 14 days, they will take the case to the High Court.
The parents argue linking gender questioning to suicide risk – particularly in mainstream political and current affairs shows – risks sending a devastating message to distressed teenagers.
They argue that if struggling young viewers hear that failing to affirm a child’s gender identity could lead to suicide, it could reinforce feelings of hopelessness – and increase the risk of copycat behaviour.
If the case proceeds, judges will decide whether Ofcom has failed in its duty to properly safeguard children by declining to examine whether there is a wider pattern of risk in the BBC’s coverage.
Source: BBC faces legal wrangle over ‘dangerous’ coverage of transgender issues