U and PG certificate guidelines

U Universal – Suitable for all. It is impossible to predict what might upset any particular child. But a ‘U’ film should be suitable for audiences aged four

years and over. ‘U’ films should be set within a positive moral

framework and should offer reassuring counterbalances to any violence, threat or horror. If a work is particularly suitable for a pre-school child to view alone, this will be indicated in

the Consumer Advice.

Discrimination No discriminatory language or behaviour unless clearly disapproved of.

Drugs No references to illegal drugs or drug misuse unless they are infrequent and innocuous, or there is a clear educational purpose or anti-drug message suitable for young children.

Horror Scary sequences should be mild, brief and unlikely to cause undue anxiety to young children. The outcome should be reassuring.

Imitable behaviour No potentially dangerous behaviour which young children are likely to copy. No emphasis on realistic or easily accessible weapons.

Language Infrequent use only of very mild bad language.

Nudity Occasional natural nudity, with no sexual context.

Sex Mild sexual behaviour (for example, kissing) and references only (for example, to ‘making love’).

Theme While problematic themes may be present, their treatment must be sensitive and appropriate for young children.

Violence Mild violence only. Occasional mild threat or menace only.

PG Parental Guidance – General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable

for young children Unaccompanied children of any age may watch. A ‘PG’ film should not disturb a child aged around eight or older. However, parents are advised to consider whether the content may upset younger or more sensitive children.

Discrimination Discriminatory language or behaviour is unlikely to be acceptable unless clearly disapproved of or in an educational or historical context. Discrimination by a character with which children can readily identify is unlikely to be acceptable.

Drugs References to illegal drugs or drug misuse must be

innocuous or carry a suitable anti-drug message.

Horror Frightening sequences should not be prolonged or intense. Fantasy settings may be a mitigating factor.

Imitable behaviour No detail of potentially dangerous behaviour which young children are likely to copy. No glamorisation of realistic or easily accessible weapons.

Language Mild bad language only.

Nudity Natural nudity, with no sexual context.

Sex Sexual activity may be implied, but should be discreet and infrequent. Mild sex references and innuendo only.

Theme Where more serious issues are featured (for example, domestic violence) nothing in their treatment should condone unacceptable behaviour.

Violence Moderate violence, without detail, may be allowed, if justified by its context (for example, history, comedy or fantasy).