The Maltese Association of Social Workers has backed the concerns expressed by Sedqa CEO Joe Gerada over the teleseries "Five06" which is being aired weekly on TVM.

Mr. Gerada had complained that the teleseries was portraying negative images of young girls in residential care and the care professionals looking after them.

"The MASW is concerned that elements of this teleseries are increasing the stigma of children who are in residential care as well as sending negative messages against other groups of our society. Such viewings show lack of sensitivity towards people's hardship and poor ethical judgement," the association said.

It urged the Broadcasting Authority to take the necessary steps to bring about a more sensitive approach by production companies.

"Such steps include the use and revision of codes of ethics, guidelines for safeguarding vulnerable people in the media and other guidelines on the use of language and content which is sensitive to members of our society ... most especially those who are vulnerable or suffering from discrimination."

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