We have today published Ofcom’s plan of work for 2020/21, which sets out our priorities and work for the new financial year.
Since we consulted on our draft plan of work in January, the coronavirus pandemic has brought major challenges to the sectors we regulate. Much of the nation is working and learning from home, and keeping in touch with family and friends using vital communications services. So, reliable phone and broadband, post and parcel deliveries, and high-quality TV and radio programmes have never been more important.
Throughout this period, we have been working with communications companies to make sure people stay connected and continue to be informed and entertained. We welcome how companies have responded to these challenges – including protecting access to critical services like 999 and 111 and prioritising vulnerable customers.
We have adapted our plan of work to reflect the exceptional circumstances that have unfolded since our consultation.
As well as supporting people and businesses through the current challenges, we have an important programme of work planned for the next year.
Our work will be guided by the following strategic themes:
- Better broadband and mobile – wherever you are;
- Fairness for Customers;
- Supporting UK broadcasting;
- Ensuring online communications work for people and businesses;
- Enabling strong, secure networks;
- Sustaining the universal postal service;
- Continuing to innovate in regulation and data to help people and businesses;
- Increasing diversity and inclusion; and
- Support through the EU exit transition period and continued international relationships.
We’re focused on the work we have planned in full over the course of this year. But we will closely monitor the evolving coronavirus situation and keep our plans flexible. We will publish an updated plan of work in September, as well as quarterly updates on our progress against the plan.