What are the differences between the certificates 12 and 12A?

The certificates 12 and 12A are often confused with one another, as they are so similar.

Films classified 12A or 12  do contain material that is not generally suitable for children aged under 12. However this does not mean that  no one younger than 12 may see a 12A film. Persons of a younger age may view the film, only if accompanied by an adult. Adults are given guidelines by the BBFC which are available to view on their website, to allow them to make the decision as to whether to take a child under 12 to view a 12A film. An adult should consider whether the film is suitable for that child. Films classified 12 are only suitable for ages 12 and above. No other exceptions may be made not even by a child being accompanied by an adult, as this criteria is only of a 12A as the A represents adult, which is the method of my own on how this can be distinctly remembered.