British Vogue first to sign Equity model code

British Vogue is the first magazine to agree to a new 10-point code which protects the rights of working models, drawn up by trade union Equity.

The revolutionary document covers shoots taking place in studios and on location, and promises models will "get assurances on hours of work, breaks, food, transport, nudity and semi-nudity, temperature, changing rooms and prompt payment."

Alexandra Shulman, editor of British Vogue, told the Evening Standard newspaper: "Our support of the Equity code reinforces our continued commitment to set the benchmark for this important industry issue.

"We're very pleased that Equity is using its position in such a positive way."

The initiative is headed by Dunja Knezevic, who approached Equity when she realised there was no body which represented the rights of models.

Dunja explained: "Signing up to Equity's code shows Vogue UK's dedication to improving the working conditions of models.

"We hope that other magazines and publishing houses, retailers and designers will also understand the importance of protecting models in the workplace, sign up to the code and prevent treatment of the kind which would be wholly unacceptable in any other profession!"

The code also bans girls under the age of 16 from being photographed for shoots aimed at adults.

This comes after the 20 international editions of Vogue agreed on a Health Initiative in May 2012 which vowed to promote a more healthy body image.