FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

London, February 2024 - Together TV, the UK broadcaster inspiring positive change, proudly announces the launch of the 2024 edition of the Diverse Film Fund, focusing on empowering deaf, disabled, and/or neurodivergent (DDN) filmmakers to tell authentic stories about Britain's diverse communities. This year's edition marks a significant milestone as the fund welcomes two new partners on board: Whisper, a leading sports and entertainment production company, and the British Sign Language Broadcasting Trust (BSLBT).

 

"Inclusivity is at the heart of Together TV's mission, and the Diverse Film Fund is a testament to our commitment to giving voice to underrepresented communities. By partnering with Whisper and BSLBT, we aim to amplify diverse narratives that resonate with our viewers and inspire positive change." said Alexander Kann, Together TV’s Chief Executive.

 

Whisper, the Paralympic producer for Channel 4, and BSLBT, are both supporting Together TV's Diverse Film Fund 2024, which aims to deliver two 10-minute films with £15,000 in funding per film. The partnership also provides filmmakers with industry-expert mentors, training, and ongoing support throughout the production process.

 

"As a company, one of our mantras is Impact Positive Change, so we are very happy to support Together TV’s Diverse Film Fund 2024 and champion their great work. We know the power of storytelling in transforming perceptions and this partnership will help to support DDN filmmakers to deliver stories from their unique perspectives to a large audience. The Paralympics celebrates disabled talent both in front of and behind the camera and it's great to be able to support emerging film makers in this way," remarked Sunil Patel, Whisper Co-Founder and CEO.

 

"We are thrilled to join forces with Together TV in supporting the Diverse Film Fund 2024. BSLBT is keen to promote authentic storytelling within the Deaf community. This collaboration opens up new avenues for fresh exploration of lives beyond labels through the lens of everyday adventures" stated Camilla Arnold, Chief Executive of BSLBT.

 

The films will adhere to The TV Access Project’s (TAP) Guidelines for Disability Inclusion in UK Television Production, BFI Diversity Standards, and BAFTA ALBERT compliance. Filmmaker, crew, and contributor needs will be assessed, and reasonable adjustments will be made as needed to ensure an inclusive production environment.

 

Creative Brief and Eligibility Criteria

The creative brief for this year's Diverse Film Fund encourages filmmakers to explore the creative space, break barriers, and showcase DDN expertise in their storytelling. Two specific themes are emphasised: one documentary related to sports or being active, aligning with Paralympic values, and another focusing on the British Sign Language signing community, delving into lives beyond labels through everyday adventures.

 

Applicants should identify as DDN, demonstrate a commitment to authentic storytelling, be aged 18+, live and work in the UK, and have no more than one broadcast credit as a director or producer. The application deadline is noon on Tuesday, 26th March 2024.

 

How to Apply

Interested filmmakers can apply online here starting from noon on Tuesday, 27th February.

For enquiries or alternative application methods, contact [email protected] with the subject "DFF 2024" or call 020 3196 1562 during office hours.

Selected films will be broadcast on Channel 4, Together TV, and TV platform catch-up services, providing a platform for these meaningful stories to reach a wider audience.

 

For media inquiries, please contact:

Francesca Aita

Head of Marketing

Together TV

07482 251 330

[email protected]

 

About Together TV

Together TV is the UK broadcaster inspiring positive change. We run a national TV channel, engagement platform and streaming service to motivate people to do good in their lives and communities.

We programme entertainment shows that focus on wellbeing and creativity, whilst championing diverse voices. In doing so, we open our audience’s eyes to the opportunities around them and motivate them to take part. As a result of watching, our viewers change attitudes, improve their well-being, gain confidence, do more for themselves and connect with their community.

Together TV broadcasts on Freeview 83, Sky 170, Virgin 136, Freesat 164 and through its free streaming service. As a Community Benefit Society, Together TV is owned by over two hundred shareholders with a wider group of funders and donors alongside the media and digital industry.

About Whisper

Whisper is a leading global production company, specialising in sports, documentaries and unscripted entertainment. Over 230 team members work in offices across the UK and beyond, producing Formula One, The Women’s EURO, The Paralympics and International Cricket, plus prime-time documentaries and entertainment quiz shows for a raft of broadcasters, including Prime Video, ITV, Channel 4 and BBC. In 2023 it won a BAFTA and was nominated for an International EMMY. Whisper is co-owned by Sony Pictures Television and is a seven-times Broadcast Best Places to Work.   

About British Sign Language Broadcasting Trust

BSLBT commissions television programs made in British Sign Language, catering to the core target audience of deaf BSL users. Established in 2008 with Ofcom's approval, BSLBT provides an alternative way for commercial broadcasters to meet regulatory requirements for sign language on qualifying channels.