Diversity in broadcasting
Our creative industries lead the world and it’s important that the most talented candidates see a job in television as a rewarding career, yet the figures show that some groups may be experiencing barriers to getting into the sector and progressing when they get there.
The television industry has long been aware of the need to increase diversity, both on- and off-screen. This is important, not only so that the industry can attract the best talent, but also because of the unique role television broadcasting has in shaping and reflecting our society’s values.
This guide has been drawn up in the knowledge that many aspects of the way the sector operates are unique and require solutions which will work in that context. It is aimed at decision-makers within the industry, at independent production companies as well as broadcasters, talent suppliers and others – from production managers to legal and business affairs executives, directors and commissioning editors.
We hope that by removing the barriers that many have perceived as holding them back, this guidance will help us achieve this aim.
Lord Holmes, Commissioner at the Equality and Human Rights Commission describes why change is essential in this article in the Guardian and in his blog. We have been very pleased to receive support in the industry, including from Simon Albury who heads up the Campaign for Broadcasting Equality and former Chair of the Royal Television Society in an article here in Broadcast Now magazine (please note there is a paywall to view this).
Images courtesy of the BBC.
Last Updated: 10 Feb 2016