Four years after we launched our campaign to end the commercialisation of childhood the government is on the verge of making a decision that will move us further away from our goal. We need you to send a message to Ben Bradshaw asking him to keep the ban on TV product placement.

A study by the Children's Society found that hyper consumption as part of the individualistic society is causing a range of problems for children including high family break-up, teenage unkindness, commercial pressures towards premature sexualisation. Health experts have warned that allowing TV product placement can only help fuel childhood obesity and exacerbate health problems.

Although the ban on product placement would remain in place for children's programmes, this safeguard is inadequate. According to Ofcom, 71% of the television watched by children is outside dedicated children's programming, so would not be covered by the proposed "safeguard".

That is why Compass has brought together individuals and organisations working in the children and parenting fields; teachers, members of the wider children's workforce, health professionals, campaigners, faith groups, academics, and politicians to put pressure on the government. We now need you to play your part.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport recently completed its consultation on this issue but discussions in the department are ongoing and there is still time to influence the final decision. Please take action now - your pressure could be decisive.

PS: Our related event 'Not in front of the kids: does product placement help or harm our children?' will take place in Parliament at 6PM on Wednesday 24 February 2010. Speakers include David Cairns MP; Sue Palmer, author, Toxic Childhood; John McVay, PACT; Neal Lawson, chair, Compass; Jackie Ashley, The Guardian (chair). To register email Gavin.