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Independent regulator and competition authority
for the UK communications industries.

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TV and Radio

Ofcom considers all complaints it receives and will assess any complaint against the Broadcasting Code. The Code contains the rules all UK broadcasters (including the BBC in certain areas) must comply with. Recent examples of Ofcom’s published decisions regarding a range of programmes.

A specific programme

We understand that people may have concerns about programmes on TV or radio. It is important that we know audiences’ opinions. Our Broadcasting Code has rules which broadcasters must follow.

Subtitling, signing or audio description

Our Code on Television Access services sets targets for the amount of TV subtitling, signing and audio description that broadcasters must provide. We also have guidance about how access services should be presented. Not all broadcasters have to follow the Code. For further details, please read the Code.

Scheduling

We are not responsible for deciding which programmes are broadcast when – this is the job of the broadcasters.

Harassed by journalists

Ofcom is a post transmission regulator and can only become involved once a programme is broadcast.

A specific advert

Complaints about adverts on TV or radio are dealt with by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).

Sponsorship and product placement

Companies can pay money to broadcasters to have their brand or products associated with a programme. This is called sponsorship.

Video on Demand (VOD) services

Althought Video on Demand (VOD) services are not subject to Ofcom’s Broadcasting Code, Ofcom is required to enforce a set of minimum standards on TV-like VOD services.

TV or radio interference or reception problems

The BBC have responsibility for investigating complaints of interference to your radio and television.

Digital TV & Radio availability

Details for Digital UK and Digital Radio Now.

Something else

Please take some time to explore the different areas of this Complain to Ofcom section of our website. We cover all of the most common types of complaint and give advice on steps you can take to resolve a problem as quickly as possible.

Anything else?

If you still have a problem, just call our Advisory Team on: 0300 123 3333 or 020 7981 3040.

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  • Your fixed line, mobile and internet

    Our job is to make sure that phone companies treat you fairly.
    Our advice and monitoring forms

  • TV and Radio Programmes

    Are you concerned about a programme you have seen on television or listened to on the radio?
    Find out how to complain

  • TV and Radio reception problems

    The BBC are responsible for investigating complaints of interference to domestic radio and television.
    Advice and how to report a problem

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