The BBC is expanding its commitment to diversity and inclusion in its program-making process, announcing a series of ambitious new goals to ensure that both on- and off-screen representation reflect the diverse make-up of the UK. Central to this push is the increase in representation targets for TV production teams, with a specific focus on ethnicity, disability, and socio-economic diversity. The BBC is now setting its sights on having 25% of production roles filled by individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, a significant step up from the previous 20% target.
As part of these efforts, the broadcaster is pledging an annual investment of at least £80 million to fund content that adheres to its creative diversity standards across both TV and radio. This financial commitment aims to align the stories seen on air with stronger off-air diversity, especially in senior leadership and production roles.
Charlotte Moore, the BBC’s Chief Content Officer, underscored the importance of this approach, said, “We are committed to backing British storytelling, and I recognise the important role diverse-led indies play in telling these authentic stories. By increasing our investment in diverse content and enhancing our off-screen diversity targets, we aim to create a more inclusive environment that authentically represents and resonates with all audiences.”
The BBC’s renewed focus on diversity comes off the back of a review conducted by the Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity (LHC). The review evaluated the BBC’s original diversity commitments, which saw £243 million invested between 2021 and 2024—more than double the initial commitment of £112 million. The LHC’s findings informed the new diversity strategy, which continues to emphasize both on-air representation and diversity in senior production roles.
Jessica Schibli, the BBC’s Head of Creative Diversity, commented on the progress made so far, noting, “Our previous commitments set an industry benchmark. Building on the insights gained over the past three years, our new creative diversity commitments go further to deepen our dedication to making meaningful and lasting changes both on and off air, particularly in senior roles off-air which influence the creative output.”
Besides financial investments and representation targets, the BBC has introduced new Inclusive Production Principles. These principles aim to foster an inclusive environment on every production, including making sure hair and makeup teams are equipped to work with diverse skin tones and hair types, and ensuring accessibility for disabled talent and crew on set. Productions will now be required to present plans on how they intend to meet the 25% diversity target and implement these inclusive practices as part of the commissioning process.
The LHC’s research, led by Professor Panayiota Tsatsou of Birmingham City University, gathered extensive evidence and presented recommendations to help guide the BBC’s future work in this area. “We believe this research creates a solid ground for future initiatives and conversations on media diversity that will make a difference to the industry,” said Tsatsou.
The BBC’s efforts also include continued collaboration with diverse-led production companies and initiatives such as the TV Access Project, which is designed to improve accessibility across the industry. The corporation is committed to maintaining transparency and accountability through annual reporting on diversity performance, ensuring that progress is measured and shared openly.
As the BBC looks ahead, its leadership is focused on building an industry that not only reflects but also resonates with the full breadth of its audiences. Through significant financial investments, robust diversity targets, and inclusive production practices, the corporation is aiming to create lasting, impactful change both in front of and behind the camera.
About Author
Leave a Reply