The broadcaster is preparing for its coverage of the 2016 Rio Paralympics
Channel 4 has announced plans to find new disabled production talent ahead of next year's Paralympic Games in Brazil.
The broadcaster has committed £u00,000 to two new talent initiatives to increase the number of people with disabilities working in television production. This reflects its commitment to ensure that 10% of those working on the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games are disabled, as outlined in its 360Ð Diversity Charter.
24 trainees with disabilities will be employed for 12 months as a Junior AP, Production Co-ordinator or Technical Assistant on the Rio Production Training Scheme.
Trainees who successfully pass the scheme will be employed by Sunset+Vine, the producers of the Rio 2016 Paralympic coverage for Channel 4.
The channel will also headhunt six disabled producers working in the industry to develop their skills to work with Sunset+Vine during the games.
Channel 4 hopes to replicate the success of presenters including Alex Brooker, co-host of the RTS-award-winning The Last Leg, and Newsround anchor Martin Dougan, who made their presenting debuts during the 2012 Paralympic coverage.
Alison Walsh, Channel 4's Disability Executive said: "The presentation team in Rio will bring in-depth knowledge of Paralympic sport and experience of disability, live broadcast skills and a uniquely Channel 4 tone and attitude to the coverage."
Research by the channel found that two thirds of viewers felt that Channel 4's coverage of the 2012 games had a positive impact on their perceptions towards people with disabilities and disabled sport.
For more details about applying for the Rio Production Training Scheme, click here.
By Pippa Shawley