What are s?

s restrict access to programmes which display a guidance warning to ensure younger audiences can’t access inappropriate content. Setting up a parental PIN or  is the best way to control what your children have access to on BBC iPlayer.

For information on setting up, switching off or resetting s, select the link for the device you're using from the bottom of this page.

If a programme has been flagged with guidance, it will feature a clear label and a ‘G’ symbol.  

Image of an episodes of a programme with a guidance label. The 'G' and warning are highlighted.

On the mobile/tablet app, the label will appear on a bar at the top of the episode.

Image of a programme on the BBC iPlayer mobile/tablet app with the guidance label and warning highlighted at the top of the screen

The s on the mobile/tablet app and website use a four-digit PIN to control access to guidance-labelled content. On the TV app, s and choose either a PIN or . When s is turned on, you'll be asked to set a PIN or . You'll need to enter this to view guidance-labelled content.

What are guidance labels?

Guidance labels let viewers know when content may be unsuitable for younger audiences (e.g. violence, sex, drug use or strong language) or when it may be harmful to some viewers (e.g. containing flashing images). Guidance labelling is usually used for television programmes that were broadcast after the TV watershed (9pm). 

If your child has signed in to their own children's , they'll see a different version of the BBC iPlayer homepage. This means your child will only see programmes and images that are suitable for them on the BBC iPlayer homepage.

How do I use parental guidance on my device?

Have a look at our parental guidance pages for advice on how to set up, reset, or turn off the parental guidance lock on your device: