Big Brother accused of exploiting trans housemate

By Marc Shoffman • May 31, 2006 - 0:00

So far the housemates seem to assume that Sam is a woman

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Channel 4's reality show Big Brother has been criticised by mental health organisations for exploiting vulnerable people for entertainment.

Health groups are concerned that contestants such as Shahbaz, and George, who left the house citing emotional issues, and Tourette's sufferer Pete along with pre op transsexual Sam, are being put under unfair stress by being in the house.

Marjorie Wallace, chief executive of Sane, told The Sun, "Housemates with vulnerable mental conditions are being used for entertainment.

"A trigger for suicide is putting these kind of people under stress. It is very dangerous."

A Channel 4 spokeswoman for Big Brother told PinkNews.co.uk: "As always, the welfare of all the housemates is of utmost importance to us. Housemates are intensively screened by professionals to ensure they are psychologically strong enough to cope with their experiences.

"During their time in the house, housemates are monitored 24 hours a day and psychologists are also on hand to talk through any concerns they may have. Big Brother also encourages housemates to try and resolve any issues between them, should that be possible."

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