love island Presenter Maya Jama is set to return to ITV this winter, with Laura Whitmore taking over.
Trigger warning: discusses topics of suicide
While the reality show continues to attract large numbers of viewers each season, many commentators have expressed concern over the consequences of contestants’ appearances on the program for their mental health.
Devastatingly, two former contestants – Sophie Graydon and Mike Thalassitis – and one former presenter of the show – Caroline Flack – have died by suicide since 2018. (opens in new tab)here).
These tragic deaths have prompted important conversations about producers’ duty of care towards participants, and how they can better support everyone involved before, during and after filming.
love island previously announced aftercare policies in 2019, but have revised them ahead of the upcoming series to provide more substantial support.
There are two big changes to be aware of. Firstly, contestants would be asked to stop all social media activity for the duration of the show (formerly, a friend or family member would post content for them while they were in the villa).
Secondly, “Islanders will also receive guidance and training on mutually respectful behavior in relationships,” according to a press release. This comes after several former contestants alleged manipulative or coercive behavior during their time on the show. Organizations such as Women’s Aid have also issued statements condemning some of the scenes.
“Duty of Care Arrangement” love island Dr Paul Litchfield, who consults on welfare policies for ITV, said: “The development has to continue in light of advances in scientific knowledge and increased awareness of the pressures young people face in establishing healthy relationships.”
“This culture of continuous improvement ensures that the islanders are well placed to benefit from their experience of taking part in one of the UK’s most popular TV shows.”
Dr Matthew Gould, who also reviews ITV’s policies, said: “Enhanced safeguards have been put in place love island 2023 demonstrates ITV’s commitment to developing Duty of Care protocols to reduce harm where possible.
“The bold decision to halt the Islanders’ social media activity during the new series is testament to ITV’s serious intent, particularly given the benefit it provides to both the appeal of the input program and a potential source of mental health problems.
“Balancing this ‘tight-rope’ requires identification of both, which safeguards have the greatest positive impact on participants’ well-being and the professional partnership that is maintained by ITV, particularly the producers and among their wellness teams, and most importantly, the contributors themselves.”
The Duty of Care process for the Series 9 includes:
– Registered mental health professional across the spectrum – from pre-filming to aftercare.
– Thorough pre-filming psychological and medical assessment including assessment by an independent therapist, psychological consultant and reports from each islander’s own GP to check medical history.
– Prospective islanders are required to fully disclose in good faith any medical history that would be relevant to their inclusion in the villas and their production capacity to provide a suitable environment for them.
– Managing cast expectations: detailed verbal and written explanations of both the positive and negative effects of participating in the series are given to potential cast members during the casting process and reinforced within the contract, so it is clear Is.
– The cast has been told that they must consider all possible implications of participating in the show and work through this decision-making process in consultation with their families and those close to them, to ensure that they feel that it is right for them.
The senior team on the ground has received training in mental health first aid.
– A wellness team dedicated entirely to the islanders during and after the show.
Worry
– Bespoke training on dealing with social media and advice on finances and adjusting to life back home.
At least eight therapy sessions will be offered to each islander upon their return home.
– Active contact with islanders for a period of 14 months following the end of the series in which they appeared, providing additional support where applicable.
– We encourage the Islanders to secure management to represent them after the show and manage them if they choose to participate in other TV shows, advertising campaigns or other public appearance opportunities.
Kudos to the makers of the show for taking steps to protect the mental health of their contestants.
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