Everyone Has a Right to Work in Television

I started my career in television as a runner more than 30 years ago, working my way up through roles in radio and drama before landing the opportunity to produce Doctor Who.  

I’ve since worked on Casualty, Mammoth, Death Valley and a number of films, but one thing has remained constant throughout my career – my belief that everyone has a right to work in television. 

For too long, TV has been seen as an industry that is difficult to break into unless you have the right connections. That shouldn’t be the case. Talent exists everywhere, and I’ve always been passionate about making sure that the productions I work on are as open as possible to people who may not otherwise get the chance. Growing up on a council estate, I never imagined I would have a career in television. I didn’t go to university – my parents simply couldn’t afford it. But I was lucky, and I want to make sure others are too. 

Over the years, I’ve been involved in setting up diversity schemes, mentoring trainees and working with organisations like It’s My Shout, ScreenSkills and other initiatives to open up opportunities to a broader range of people. It’s one thing to run a scheme, but what matters is what happens next. It’s not enough for someone to get a single experience on set – they need to be given the chance to turn that into a career. That’s something I always try to ensure when I bring new talent onto a production. 

I’ll be offering full-time roles to some of those who were trainees on Mammoth and Death Valley last year. That’s how we make real change – not by giving people a one-off placement, but by ensuring they have the opportunity to move forward and build their future in the industry. 

Working in Wales gives us a fantastic opportunity to do this. Roath Lock, where I’m based, is right in the heart of Cardiff Bay, and we’ve always tried to encourage local people to come through its doors. Wales already has some of the best talent in the UK, both on and off screen. It also has some of the best filming locations in the world. But to continue to grow and thrive, the industry here needs to ensure that people from all backgrounds have a way in. 

I make a point of giving my email to every trainee I meet. I sit in Roath Lock, and when Roger Burnell from It’s My Shout walks past my desk with new talent, I always take the time to speak with them. I’ll attend any networking event that might help someone find their way into the industry. And I’ll keep championing the fact that if you have the passion, there should be a way in – no matter where you come from. 

I want to see the next generation of Welsh TV talent getting up on stage to collect their BAFTAs and Emmys, thanking the people who gave them a chance. I want to look at a cast and crew photo and see a fully diverse group of people, from different backgrounds, different communities, bringing their perspectives and skills to the industry. 

That’s what we should be aiming for – not just for the sake of diversity itself, but because the best television is made when it reflects the world we live in. We are moving in the right direction, but there is always more to be done. Everyone has a right to work in television, and it’s up to all of us to make sure those doors stay open.