Nearly half of all employees in the United Kingdom’s broadcasting sector are now based outside London, according to Ofcom’s eighth annual equity, diversity, and inclusion report. The British communications regulator’s study highlights significant progress in workforce distribution across the UK but underscores persistent diversity challenges, especially at senior levels.

As of 2024, 48% of broadcasting roles are located outside the capital, up from 46% in 2023. This proportion is marginally higher in television (49%) compared to radio (46%). Ofcom emphasized the importance of this shift for better representation of the UK’s diverse audiences.

However, the report reveals that underrepresentation remains an issue, particularly for women, ethnic minorities, and disabled individuals in senior roles. Women make up half of the overall workforce but occupy only 43% of senior positions, with an even lower share (33%) in radio outside of the BBC. Similarly, ethnic minorities represent 11% of senior staff despite comprising 26% of new hires. Disabled individuals, though accounting for 11% of the overall workforce, represent only 9% at senior levels.

Socio-economic diversity also lags, with only 27% of the industry workforce coming from working-class backgrounds, compared to a benchmark of 39% for the general UK population. Ofcom highlighted the lack of comprehensive data on socio-economic status, as information is available for just half of the workforce.

Retention rates among minority groups pose additional challenges. While ethnic minorities make up 26% of new hires, they also constitute 23% of those leaving the industry, suggesting a “revolving door” effect.

Ofcom underscored the critical need for broadcasters to address these gaps to ensure sustainable growth and maintain public trust. The report calls for broadcasters to prioritize collecting comprehensive socio-economic data for the 2025 study and implement strategies to retain underrepresented groups.

“A diverse and representative workforce is essential for producing trusted, accurate, and authentic programs that resonate with audiences from all corners of the UK,” Ofcom noted in its statement.

This article is based on information from Ofcom’s equity, diversity, and inclusion in broadcasting report and official statements.

Key Highlights:

• Ofcom’s latest report reveals 48% of UK broadcasters are now based outside London.
• Women, ethnic minorities, and disabled individuals remain underrepresented in senior roles.
• Socio-economic diversity and retention rates for minority groups continue to be significant challenges.