Communication makes our world go round – and at Ofcom we’ve been making sure nothing gets in the way of that for 20 years.
Since our inception in 2003, the dynamic world of communications has meant there has been a lot of change to navigate for an authority like us. From broadband to mobile services and live broadcasting to streaming, the rate of evolution means regulation is a constant journey, with many twists and turns in the road.
We’re passionate about keeping ahead of the changes to make sure that communications continue to work for everyone for the next 20 years and beyond.
Our 2023/24 Annual Report and Accounts show the impact of our work over the past year, and we’re excited to navigate what’s coming next.
Highlights for 2023/24
A new regime
We formally took on our role as the regulator for online safety, and swiftly set out plans to tackle illegal harmful content and protect children when they’re online.
Regulating VSPs
People who use video-sharing platforms will be better protected, thanks to our research into the platforms and our engagement with providers.
Working together
A global challenge needs a global solution. We have continued to work with counterparts around the world to get the best results from our combined efforts.
Better deals for customers
Telecoms customers will find it easier to manage their costs, thanks to our proposed ban on inflation-linked mid-contract price rises and new rules requiring providers to make contracts clearer.
A market fit for the future
Customers will benefit from continued investment and competition in telecoms, after we launched our next major review of the market.
Reviewing digital markets
Our market study of cloud services in the UK, and review of net neutrality, identified improvements that will bring about better outcomes for consumers.
Post, present and future
Our review of the universal postal service, and proposals for its future, aim to make sure it continues to serve its users while ensuring its sustainability.
Monitoring Royal Mail
Our findings that Royal Mail had missed its delivery targets for First and Second-class services led to us imposing a significant fine.
Affordability for users
Customers can continue to use the postal service at affordable prices after we maintained a price cap on Second Class stamps.
Airwaves for the future
We set out plans to make more spectrum available, which will result in more people being able to use the connections and technology we rely on every day.
Space spectrum strategy
Our space strategy has helped to improve broadband and mobile connections, as well as bringing about benefits in broadcast TV, emergency communications and climate monitoring.
Working internationally
Our continued work with international counterparts has been vital in ensuring the UK is well represented in global decisions and discussions on spectrum.
Supporting public service media
The Government’s Media Act proposes changes to the media landscape that will benefit audiences and broadcasters. Published this year, our roadmap sets out how we’ll implement these changes.
Looking ahead at TV’s future
We’ve looked at how TV consumption is changing. Our findings and recommendations will help broadcasters to handle developments in technology and audience behaviour.
Regulating the BBC
Our reviews of the BBC will help to make sure it serves its audiences – including improvements for audiences who feel its output doesn’t currently meet their needs.
Protecting audiences
Broadcasters’ freedom of expression is important, and so is the protection of viewers. We assessed tens of thousands of complaints from people about things they saw or heard on TV and radio, as well as continuing our research into viewers’ attitudes to content that some people might find offensive or upsetting.
Accessibility for all
Our guidance and report on access services and EPGs will help people who are deaf, have hearing loss, are blind or partially sighted, to be able to access and enjoy TV that is available to everybody.
Regulating advertising
We reviewed advertising rules at a time of commercial challenge for broadcasters, and also continued our preparations for the introduction of tighter rules for advertising less healthy food and drink products
