LONDON — Industry veteran Vince Charlton will join FSC as the organization’s Age Verification Policy Liaison — with a special focus on the U.K. and Europe — as it works to more proactively engage legislators and regulators.
Known for his management roles with U.K.-based platform AdultWork.com, Charlton has maintained a strong focus on child protection and trafficking issues. He was involved in the age verification debate over the Digital Economy Act through his previous pro bono involvement with the Association of Sites Advocating Child Protection (ASACP).
FSC Executive Director Alison Boden said, “We can’t just battle bad legislation in the courts. We need to be involved in the rule-making process from the beginning. Vince has extensive connections and experience, and can help us get into the rooms we need to be in."
Boden added that she is "incredibly thankful" to have Charlton on board, and grateful for his generosity in donating his time and experience.
“We’re all eager to get to work,” she said.
Charlton retired from AdultWork.com in September. Following retirement, he said, he felt the call to give something back to the industry through pro bono work.
“While I’m a staunch believer in the fight to prevent children from viewing adult content, I just as firmly believe in protecting the free speech rights of the industry,” said Charlton. “I’m looking to provide the FSC with a seat at the U.K. policymaking table, where we can have a real voice. We need to kick back against the more disingenuous attacks on the industry whilst also exploring ways in which we can all work together to tackle the very real issue of underage access.”