Almost half of employees across the UK’s broadcasting sector are now based outside of London, according to Ofcom’s latest study on the make-up of the TV and radio industry.
Ofcom’s eighth annual equity, diversity and inclusion in broadcasting report shows that 48% of roles in broadcasting are now based outside the capital in the Nations and Regions – up from 46% in 2023. The proportion is slightly higher in TV (49%) than in radio (46%).
But today’s report also paints a mixed picture, revealing particular areas where progress towards a more representative workforce has stalled.
Underrepresentation at senior levels
Certain groups persistently underrepresented, particularly in senior, decision-making and editorial roles.
While women remain well represented across the industry overall (50%), despite a slight uplift in promotions, they’re still under-represented at a senior level (43%). This is particularly true for radio (excluding the BBC), with women only accounting for a third (33%) of those in senior management roles, and only 36% in commissioning or programming positions.
Similarly, people from minority ethnic groups only account for 11% of those in senior roles across the industry, while there is continued underrepresentation of disabled people across all job levels (11%) and even more so at a senior level (9%).
Our available data also suggests continued underrepresentation of working-class people across the industry - 27% against a working population benchmark of 39%. There are also persistent data gaps in this area given we still only have information on the socio-economic background of 50% of the industry’s workforce. We expect more broadcasters to prioritise collecting this data in time for next year’s report.
Revolving door of talent
There is evidence of a 'revolving door' where employee retention rates remain lower than average among some underrepresented groups. Our data suggests bigger churn among women and those from minority ethnic groups working in broadcasting.
For example, although a greater proportion of those joining the broadcasting industry are from a minority ethnic group (26%), they also make up a higher proportion of those leaving their jobs (23%).
Cross-industry efforts and individual accountability
A diverse and representative workforce is vital for a sustainable broadcasting industry. Our research shows that viewers and listeners value trusted, accurate and authentic programmes that speak to diverse audiences, from a range of backgrounds across the UK.
Ofcom has duties to promote equality of opportunity for employment by broadcasters we regulate. Our report highlights the need for broadcasters to continue to see equity, diversity and inclusion as business critical. We are encouraged by a number of recent industry initiatives – such as the ScreenSkills partnership with the Creative Diversity Network, and the Edinburgh TV Festival’s Impact Unit - and will continue to support cross-industry collaborative efforts.
We also recognise that progress requires individual broadcasters to be accountable for change within their own organisations, and will shine a light on the progress made in next year’s report.