Keighley and Ilkley MP Robbie Moore hosted an event in Parliament to support the BBC’s plan to ensure its social, cultural and economic benefits are felt in every community across the UK, including in Keighley and Ilkley.
At the event, Tim Davie, the Director General of the BBC launched a report which sets out how it will reach all corners of the UK’s regions and nations to support levelling up and increase equality of opportunity.
This includes Yorkshire and the Humber, where the BBC currently employs 335 people, supports 700 supply chain jobs, and contributes £103 million economic benefit across the region.
Included in the report was:
- An announcement that BBC Bitesize will improve its offer for Primary and Key Stage 3 learners, including a brand-new Bitesize Reception offer for 4-year-olds. There will be a focus on careers, with more films commissioned and partnerships with big BBC productions to discuss careers.
- A 25% target for lower socio-economic diversity
- Plans for BBC apprenticeships to double to 1,000 by 2025/26
Robbie Moore MP said: “The BBC provides a fantastic news and entertainment service, but as a publicly funded institution, they must ensure that they offer a wider value to society and communities such as Keighley and Ilkley; from supporting regeneration and local jobs to creating new opportunities through its supply chain of production companies.
With their regional headquarters down the road in Leeds, the BBC can provide some fantastic opportunities for skilled work to my constituents. It is great that the corporation will specifically be offering more apprenticeships and roles to those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, and I want them to make sure these chances are there for our young people across our community.
Tim Davie, BBC Director-General, said: “We have the privilege of a public funding model, which means we must deliver great value for all and we must reflect the views and perspectives of everyone, whoever and wherever they are. We also have a duty and responsibility to ensure that the social, cultural, and economic benefits of the BBC are felt in every community, in every corner of our nations and regions.”
