UMVA has learned that a man with a history of assault was allowed to appear on Channel 4's popular dating show First Dates, sparking concerns about the broadcaster's vetting process.
The individual, a 41-year-old, had been convicted of assaulting an ex-girlfriend and hitting another partner, resulting in a court case in 2020. He was sentenced to a one-year community order, a two-year restraining order, and was required to pay £225.
The news has raised questions about how Channel 4 failed to detect the man's violent past, with one victim's mother expressing outrage and heartbreak. "I cannot tell you how damaging this man has been to her life physically, but also the impact to her long-term mental health has been catastrophic," she said.
The victim's mother also criticized Channel 4 for promoting the man as a potential match on the show, saying, "Channel 4 should be held accountable for presenting, for entertainment, a man with a known history of violence against women as a safe and trustworthy partner."
Another ex-partner of the man also spoke out, saying she "spiralled" after seeing him on the show, still suffering from the trauma of the abuse. "It impacts my daily life," she added.
Channel 4 has responded to the allegations, stating that all First Dates contributors are subject to the highest level of checks, including a DBS and detailed online checks. However, the broadcaster has not explained why the man's violent past was not detected.
The incident has also raised concerns about the broader issue of domestic violence and abuse, with a charity offering support to those affected. Rape Crisis England & Wales provides a 24/7 support line for free on 0808 500 2222.
The controversy comes as Channel 4 is already facing scrutiny over allegations of wrongdoing on its other reality show, Married At First Sight UK. The broadcaster has announced a review into contributor welfare on the series, but has not indicated that it will review or halt production on First Dates.
