BBCS, ITVS, Directors UK & Pact create forum to address sector challenges

Andy Harrower (Pic credit: Christopher Andreou)

BBC Studios and ITV Studios, along with trade associations Directors UK and Pact have formed the Directors and Producers Forum to address challenges faced by the UK production sector.

The forum will comprise senior representatives and members of Directors UK as well as producers. It will discuss matters raised by forum members as well as afford an opportunity for producers to brief on proposed industry developments, production matters and the status of sector initiatives such as diversity and inclusion, environmentally sustainable production and skills training.

The first meeting will take place on 13 December and “at least” bi-annually thereafter, with topics of discussion likely to cover increased costs of production; and changes in the consumption of programmes by audiences.

Directors UK said that bringing producers and directors together at the forum will allow a collaborative approach to dealing with such challenges and provide “more transparency over the way producers and directors seek to continue making innovative, entertaining and artistic content.”

Andy Harrower, Directors UK chief executive, said: “The television programmes produced in the UK and directed by our members are enjoyed by audiences throughout the world. The purpose of the Directors and Producers Forum is to create a much needed platform, away from the day-to-day pressures of production, for directors and producers to work collaboratively and openly.”

A BBC spokesperson added: “A strong, effective, working relationship between producers and directors is critical in ensuring the continued success of the UK creative industries and the BBC welcomes the opportunity to be involved as a core member of this new forum.”