Together TV discuss their latest event celebrating 25 years within the UK’s TV landscape, the current challenges facing the sector, and the importance of coming together to create meaningful change in the media industry.
Recently, Together TV celebrated a significant milestone - 25 years of dedicated work connecting communities through the power of partnerships. Hosted by Lord Michael Grade at the House of Lords, the event showcased the impact and uniqueness of Together TV within the TV landscape as the world’s only community-owned, charity broadcaster.
In attendance were esteemed peers, MPs, media supporters from the public service broadcasters and platform operators, cooperative members, filmmakers and beneficiaries.
Making a Difference: Together TV's Unique Role
Alexander Kann, Chief Executive of Together TV, opened the event with a speech celebrating the unique role that Together TV plays in using media to create positive action –reducing social isolation, improving mental health, increasing connection, belonging and community participation. He thanked Lord Grade, chair of Ofcom and long-standing friend of Together TV, for hosting.
With 12 million annual viewers, millions engaging on social media, and half a million visiting its website, Together TV bridges the gap between the sofa and society. Collaborating with community groups, the channel connects with and supports those in need, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
The channel's initiatives, including the Sunflower Challenge, Green Challenge, and DIY Challenge successfully engage tens of thousands of participants across two or three months, motivating people to then get involved in community activities, underscore the impact of TV, offline and online media in driving behavioural change. The channel’s BAFTA-winning Diverse Film Fund funds, trains and mentors new documentary-makers telling stories from underserved communities, developing talent and careers and making people feel seen.
Alex also highlighted the challenges that Together TV faces in terms of distribution, finances, and evolving media landscape. Together TV’s audience are older, lower-income and heavily regional and rural with very traditional viewing habits – they love ‘normal’ telly – and are getting left behind in the shift towards streaming. Together TV cannot secure Freeview carriage due to limited spectrum being available, and so addressing this challenge and seeking financial support to fund impactful initiatives is crucial for their continued success.
Lord Grade's Endorsement: Media for Positive Impact
Following Alex's insights, Lord Grade expressed his endorsement and warm support for Together TV, commending its role in empowering communities and positively impacting viewers' wellbeing. He emphasised the importance of creative industries and their contribution to society and the economy, underscoring Together TV's unique position.
Lisa Opie's Vision: The Call for Action
Lisa Opie, Chair of Together TV, emphasised the pivotal role of the media industry in Together TV's success. Reflecting on the journey from The Community Channel to Together TV, she highlighted the vital support received from media partners that played a fundamental role in establishing the channel – including 20+ year partnerships with the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Paramount, Sky, Virgin Media and Freeview.
Lisa pointed out the challenges in the TV landscape, including the need for better Freeview distribution - it is imperative that traditional TV viewers have access to the channel – as this drives viewing, income and impact. The channel also needs to secure funding for the Diverse Film Fund and Challenges, and needs support as it navigates the shift from broadcast to broadband delivery. Lisa urged all present to support Together TV in terms of distribution, finances, and strategic guidance.
Collaborating for a Brighter Future
Together TV stands as a beacon of inspiration, showcasing how media can create meaningful change. As Members of the UK Parliament, your support can help empower Together TV to continue making a positive impact on communities, individuals, and society at large.
Let us collectively work towards a future where media serves not just as a source of entertainment but as a powerful force for positive change.
Leave your pledge here: https://www.togethertv.com/how-support-together-tv