Channel 4 launches first equity strategy

Channel 4 has updated its diversity and inclusion policies with the launch of its first ever equity strategy framework.

The new framework titled ‘Equity by Design’ is intended to embed diversity and inclusion into C4’s decision-making from the outset. It was described in a statement as “a blueprint for everyone who works at Channel 4” as the broadcaster moves to become a digital-first streamer.

Equity by Design has been created around six principles which were designed by C4 employees, stakeholders and audiences. These are: make informed choices, design for inclusion, choose inclusive partners, treat people right, create opportunity, and lead on societal impact.

“As an agile digital-first streamer, our success will depend on how well we can anticipate and respond to changing needs in this space,” read a statement.

“We will only close existing diversity and inclusion gaps by applying a vigorous equity lens to everything we do. We will achieve this by improving how we design diversity and inclusion into our decision-making from the outset.”

As part of the equity strategy, the creative diversity team which sits in the commissioning department will be renamed creative equity, to reflect the new emphasis on equity throughout the business.

Within its six principles, the new framework also states that it will “assess and hold suppliers accountable to their commitment to equity” as part of its ‘choose inclusive partners’ principle. This means that C4 will focus on investing in diverse and inclusive partners and it empowers commissioners to set out equity expectations when working with suppliers, following diversity guidelines and compliance standards set out by the broadcaster.

The framework also intends to address societal issues impacting employees and audiences such as class. As part of this, the organisation is looking to meaningfully address the current conflict in Israel and Gaza and how it can best support the health and wellbeing of Jewish, Muslim and Arab employees and create a more inclusive culture with regards to faith.

In 2023, Channel 4 exceeded its diversity goals with women representing 58% of its workforce, with 22% of employees being ethnically diverse against a 20% target and 21% disabled compared to a 12% target.

“The fight for equitable representation is the foundation of Channel 4,” said C4 chief executive Alex Mahon.

“This Equity Strategy is the next jump ahead and will centre our ways of doing things and our employees and audience in helping us make more positive impact. As we become the world’s first public service streamer, we will be doing it with these values at the heart of all our choices.”