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The Role of the BBFC
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The BBFC classifies films, videos and digital media. It does this on behalf of the Local Authorities, who are responsible for cinema licensing and classification, and as the designated authority under the Video Recordings Act.
The BBFC is funded solely from the fees charged for its services.
Statement of Purpose
1. To provide the public with the means to make informed decisions about the films, videos or digital media which they, or those in their care, may wish to view or play.
2. To classify works into appropriate categories with regard to relevant legislation and in accordance with the Board's published Classification Guidelines. In doing so, to preserve a proper balance between social responsibility and freedom of expression.
3. To provide a reliable and efficient service to the Board's client industries.
4. To operate at all times in an independent, fair, consistent and transparent manner.
5. To be accessible and responsive to the public and its representatives.
6. To ensure a sound financial base for the Board's work and to preserve its independence and integrity.
Aims
The BBFC, additionally, has the following aims:
(i) To ensure that the Classification Guidelines are in line with current legal requirements and contemporary public opinion. To that end, to engage in regular and wide ranging consultation with the public and its representatives, with expert and specialist advisers and with the relevant entertainment industries.
(ii) To seek at all times, in the implementation of the Guidelines, to ensure that the younger and more vulnerable members of society are protected from harm.
(iii) To monitor closely research into the effects of the media and changes in public opinion; and to participate in relevant research projects.
(iv) To promote clear, effective and efficient working practices, lines of communication and accountability, in all aspects of the Board's work.
(v) To treat all submitting clients fairly and impartially and to promote openness by providing information and advice about Board policy and procedures.
(vi) To continue to improve the quality and efficiency of the Board's performance at all levels through ongoing internal review and early response to developments in the industry and in technology.
(vii) To ensure that the Board is responsive to new requirements for classification services.
(viii) To achieve a high level of courtesy in all forms of communication.
(ix) To keep under review appropriate means of informing audiences about film, video or digital media content and to promote their use.
(x) To explain the Board's function and activities to the public clearly and fully.
(xi) Through the application of equal opportunities and fair employment policies and practices, to develop the Board's staff to their full potential to enable them to secure the aims set out here.
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