Ofcom’s role, powers and responsibilities

Promoting equity, diversity and inclusion in broadcasting is a priority for Ofcom, and we are working with the industry to make progress.

This video explains why we think diversity in broadcasting is so important, and what we are doing to drive change in the sector.

A British Sign Language (BSL) version of the video is also available.

If you have any queries about Ofcom’s role in this area, please contact EDIinbroadcasting@ofcom.org.uk

Our legal powers

Read a summary of our legal powers.

Our guidance

We provide guidance for broadcasters on improving equity, diversity and inclusion in their organisations.

Our wider diversity work

We carry out a broad range of work relating to diversity in broadcasting.

We review how well the public service broadcasters (PSBs) – BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5 and S4C – are meeting additional duties relating to diversity

We hold the PSBs to account for requirements relating to regional TV production and programming

We assess the BBC’s performance against diversity-related obligations in our annual reports on the BBC.

We hold Channel 4 to account for diversity-related obligations, including in our latest periodic review (PDF, 811.7 KB).

We enforce our broadcasting code rules, which include that broadcasters must apply ‘generally accepted standards’ to the contents of TV and radio programmes.

Recent comment

• Dame Melanie Dawes, Ofcom's Chief Executive, introduces our 2020 diversity and equal opportunities report
• Vikki Cook, Ofcom's Director of Broadcast and Online Content, outlines what we are doing to help broadcasters improve minority ethnic representation in television