Resource centre
The ASA publish a vast range of resources, the majority of which are based on current issues we are dealing with on behalf of both the public and advertisers. We explain the action we take on these issues as well as reporting on the ad industry compliance in certain sectors.
We also give helpful pointers to media literacy, FAQs and useful links, and offer an overview of our Public affairs activities.
In this section you will find background information and articles about some of the important issues that the ASA deals with on behalf of the public and advertisers. Here we examine the advertising trends that prompt complaints, explore some of the wider societal themes surrounding advertising, explain the action that the ASA has taken and put our decisions and the Advertising Codes in context.
We are often asked to explain the specific advertising rules in key sectors and provide background information about certain issues. Background briefings are a useful overview of our work in certain areas. They provide the context for why the rules are in place, as well as listing relevant ASA rulings.
We survey media and industry sectors to check the compliance rate and identify any potential problems. Our research is usually targeted towards sensitive sectors or those that have a history of problems. Thanks to the commitment of industry to advertise responsibly, our surveys show that the overwhelming majority of ads, more than 97% on average, are compliant with the rules. Visit this section to download our compliance, events and research reports.
The ability to understand and safely interact with the media is important if we are to enjoy the many benefits it can bring. Put simply, ads offer a way for organisations to tell people about their brand and the products and services they offer. As well as understanding how bodies like the ASA work, it is also important that consumers have a good understanding and awareness of how media works. Visit this section to read about organisations that have produced materials and information directed at schools and colleges and the wider public.
The UK advertising regulatory system helps maintain trust in advertising by robustly enforcing the Codes and allowing responsible advertising to flourish. An important element of this work is the prevention of breaches of the Codes.
The Public Affairs team is here to look after the ASA’s relationship with stakeholders and increase understanding of advertising self- and co-regulation. Visit this section to read about the Public affairs team work, including responses to consultations from Government, Parliamentary Select Committees and information on how to contact the team.
Frequently Asked Questions will answer the most asked questions by consumers about the ASA and general enquiries complaints about procedures and adjudications. Please visit this section as you may find your answer here instantly.
We’ve provided some links to various bodies involved with consumer protection and regulation. We often get asked whether we can help with sourcing a particular ad or identify a piece that’s been used in an ad. Although we can’t help with these sorts of requests, we’ve provided links to some sites and organisations that might be able to help.
Our experts
The ASA often uses experts and resources from other bodies to help advise them on certain matters relating to ads. This ensures consistency, transparency and clarification on subjects relating to complaints, helping the ASA to reach an informed decision.