DIVERSITY
Diversity and Inclusion. Why is it important?
Diversity and inclusion are essential for any industry, but they offer particularly significant benefits in the media industry, where representation, storytelling, and content creation shape public perception.
Diversity brings together individuals from various backgrounds, including different races, ethnicities, genders, socioeconomic statuses, cultures, and perspectives and in the media industry, this can foster creativity and innovation by combining varied ideas, experiences, and viewpoints. It enables media organisations to develop richer, more nuanced content that resonates with a wider range of audiences.
Additionally, media has a powerful influence on shaping public opinions, behaviours, and cultural norms. By promoting diversity and inclusion, media organisations can contribute to societal change by normalising inclusive behaviour and encouraging acceptance of differences.
RECOMMENDED DIVERSITY RESOURCES
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ScreenSkills
ScreenSkills is an organisation that provides training, development, and support for individuals working in the screen industries, including film, television, animation, VFX, and games. It focuses on upskilling the workforce, promoting diversity, and addressing skills shortages through apprenticeships, training programs, and industry-recognised certifications.
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Pact Diversity Scheme
An initiative by Pact (Producers Alliance for Cinema and Television) aimed at improving diversity within the TV and film production industry. It offers paid placements and training for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, providing them with opportunities to gain experience and develop skills in production roles, ultimately promoting a more inclusive workforce in the industry.
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Film & TV Charity
The Film & TV Charity provides support to individuals working in the film, television, and cinema industries. It offers services such as mental health support, financial assistance, and career development resources to help industry professionals navigate challenges and improve their wellbeing.
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Filming in England
Filming in England is a service provided by Creative England that supports film and TV productions shooting outside of London. It offers guidance on locations, permits, crew, and local resources to help productions run smoothly across England, while also promoting the country's regions as prime filming destinations.
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Media Trust
Media Trust is a UK charity that empowers underrepresented communities and young people through media and communication skills. It connects the media industry with charities, nonprofits, and diverse voices, offering training, mentoring, and opportunities to help individuals tell their stories and build careers in media.
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Coalition For Change
The Coalition for Change is an initiative that brings together industry stakeholders in TV and film to improve working conditions across the production sector. It focuses on key areas like workplace culture, mental health, and fair treatment of freelancers, aiming to create a more supportive, sustainable, and inclusive working environment.
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Women in Film and Television
WFTV supports and promotes women working in the film, TV, and creative media industries. It offers networking opportunities, career development, mentorship, and advocacy to help women advance and achieve equality in the industry.
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TV Access Project
TAP is focused on improving accessibility in the television industry for disabled talent. It aims to increase inclusivity by addressing barriers to entry, ensuring equal opportunities, and promoting better representation of disabled individuals in TV production roles and content creation.