Points to ponder from the workshop:
- Always aim to minimise harm for the young person whilst giving them access to the media and fair representation within the media.
- The interview should be a positive experience for the young person.
- The young person should be fully briefed on all questions before the interview.
- It's important to let the young person know that they can say 'no' at any point during the interview, if they are not comfortable with the questioning.
- It's not acceptable for the media to interview young people alone - a guardian (of the same sex as the young person if possible) should be there at all times to safeguard the wellbeing of the young person.
- The guardian is there to protect the child and halt the interview if necessary.
- The guardian should be chosen carefully, to ensure the child is comfortable giving the interview in front of that person.
- Parental consent should be received before interviews with young people aged under 18.
- The young person must give informed consent to the interview/ media appearance, and be told about the possible consequences of appearing in the article/ media piece. Interviewees should understand they have a choice not to speak to the media or to stop publication of the piece if they are not happy at any point.
