British Vogue Signs Equity Models Code

BRITISH Vogue has signed a ten-point code protecting models at work, organised by Equity - the trade union best known for representing actors and actresses. The deal was drawn up to improve the working conditions of models.

The agreement stipulates that models hired by Vogue will not work longer than ten hours a day, will have adequate food provided and will not do any semi or fully nude shoots unless agreed in advance. The code also prohibits models under the age of 16 from being photographed for shoots representing adult models. Other requisites include mandatory breaks, changing rooms, transport, prompt payment and suitable temperatures for the clothes being modelled.

"Signing up to Equity's Ten Point Code truly shows British Vogue's dedication to improving the working conditions of models," said Equity Models Committee chair Dunja Knezevic. "We hope that other magazines and publishing houses, retailers and designers will also understand the importance of protecting models in the workplace, sign up to the code and prevent treatment of the kind which would be wholly unacceptable in any other profession!"

The news follows the Vogue Health Initiative, which was launched in May 2012 - a pact between the 20 international editors of Vogue to encourage a healthier approach to body image within the industry.

"Work has been ongoing in the year since the Health Initiative was announced by all international Vogue editors," said British Vogue editor Alexandra Shulman. "Here in Britain, we've been working with model agencies to assist in the education and mentorship of younger models, and our support of the Equity Code reinforces our continued commitment to set the benchmark for this important industry issue.  We're very pleased that Equity is using its position in such a positive way."