Fresh guidance on the reporting of children has noted a recommendation that young people’s full names should not be included in photo captions.

The guidance, produced by the Independent Press Standards Organisation, has acknowledged the recommendation made by a “number of organisations”, although the watchdog itself has stopped short of formally endorsing it.

The guidance has been produced with charities including Childnet and the NSPCC, as well as representatives of the Scottish Government.

It outlines how the Editors’ Code of Practice provides children with greater protection than adults and uses case studies to provide practical examples of how journalists can navigate the Code’s requirements.

A short section of the guidance headlined ‘Use of names’ states simply: “A number of organisations now recommend that where children’s images are used, the child’s full name should not be included in a caption.”

However it does not elaborate further and stops short of endorsing the recommendation.

IPSO head of standards and regulation Rosemary Douce, pictured, said: “IPSO’s children’s guidance clarifies that special protections are granted to children because of their vulnerable position.

“The Editors’ Code contains specific provisions regarding children who are involved in criminal proceedings, whether as a defendant, witness, or victim, so journalists can follow these guidelines to take extra care.”

Will Gardner, chief executive of Childnet said: “Children’s voice is important to reflect in reporting, but extra care must be taken to protect them from risk of harm, including online, and IPSO’s new guidance for journalists reflects this concern.” 

NSPCC associate head of media, Harry Watkinson added: “IPSO’s Public Information on how the press reports on children is a useful tool for gaining an insight into how journalists should cover children’s stories responsibly and with the care and attention the subject matter demands.”

The full guidance can be read here.