Bid To Stop Rogue Model Agencies
First Published on the BBC News| website 20th February 2007
Bogus agencies prey on the dreams of young girls
The government may crack down on rogue agencies which persuade young girls to part with money in the hope of pursuing a career as a model.
Impressionable youngsters have been known to lose large sums after attending casting sessions.
The Department for Trade and Industry is thought to be considering banning fees taken on false promises of fame.
It is expected to launch a consultation period on new plans to protect vulnerable workers.
Lily Cooper-Woods was the victim of such scam after responding to a newspaper advert.
She handed over money after attending a casting session.
The teenager, whose mother paid a £120 deposit following the session, did not hear back from the bogus agency after paying the fee.
She told BBC News: "I was pretty devastated.
"I felt a bit used and humiliated and like I had been made a fool of."
Legitimate modelling agencies do not charge upfront fees, according to Sarah Dukas, of Storm modelling agency.
She said the "burning desire" of some youngsters meant that they were prepared to part with their money, making them vulnerable.
The plans being considered by the DTI would prohibit fees being taken in certain circumstances.