Channel 4 has announced a 3-year programme to support new and emerging writers across the north of England.
The Talent Development Partnership is being run alongside New Writing North and aims to identify and support new writers, with a particular focus on supporting writers from backgrounds that are currently underrepresented in the television industry.
“This partnership underlines Channel 4’s commitment to nurturing talent in the north of England. I’m delighted that we’re increasing our backing over the next three years so this new partnership with New Writing can help launch the careers of many more television writers,” said Sinéad Rocks, Managing Director, Nations & Regions at Channel 4.
“This initiative coupled with the wide range of projects being undertaken by our training and development team, 4Skills, will open opportunities to hundreds of people who might never have thought a career in the broadcast industry was for them.”
The programme will offer awards, placements with indies, script development, roadshows and workshops and the formation of the Northern Talent Network.
Production company partners include Bonafide Films (Mood; The Last Post), Lime Pictures (Hollyoaks; Zero Chill) and Rollem Productions.
“We are delighted to be taking part in the Northern Writers’ Awards and working with New Writing North,” explained Kay Mellor, Managing Director at Rollem Productions.
“Here at Rollem we pride ourselves on telling stories about ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances, and we are dedicated to shining a spotlight on our region and nurturing the next generation of writers. We can’t wait to read the ideas that come in, and to work alongside an emerging writer to help shape their work and hone their craft.”
The newly formed Northern Talent Network will offer open-access community events for people interested in taking their first steps into writing for television.
It will also provide a series of specialist masterclasses for emerging TV writers in the region.
“New Writing North and Channel 4’s new Talent Development Partnership builds on several years of positive and fruitful collaboration and learning,” added Will Mackie, Senior Programme Manager (Writing and Awards) at New Writing North.
“We are absolutely delighted to be expanding our work alongside Channel 4 to enhance opportunities for writers in the North of England through innovative developmental programmes, community work and support networks. We’re looking forward to deepening our work with television writers to provide them with experiences that not only transform their creative work and professional connections but also contribute to enriching and diversifying the fabric of writing for television.
“We believe strongly in the importance of mutually beneficial partnership work and, along with Channel 4, we’re thrilled to again be working with inspirational production companies such as Lime Pictures and Bonafide Films, and delighted to be adding a third award alongside the pioneering and exciting Rollem Productions.”
