EMBEDDING DEI AND ENABLING PROGRESSION We run a range of initiatives to improve diversity on and People of Colour and Deaf, Disabled, off-screen and help people progress in their careers. or Neurodivergent leaders. ITV’s Step Up 60 programme continues to provide Off-screen we’ve also seen all of our hair stylists opportunities for People of Colour and Deaf, on Coronation Street and Emmerdale complete Amplify was a great way Disabled and Neurodivergent people to step up inclusive hair workshops on treating and styling to get one-to-one time into more senior production roles across various Afro, Curly and Textured Hair. with commissioners and shows, including Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night a real insight into the Takeaway and Vera. Over its three years, we have ITV Academy ran initiatives to increase opportunities at ITV. The created 185 opportunities (including 62 in 2023). representation including Original Voices, which Participants stepped up into a variety of roles enables underrepresented writers to work on development funding including Directors, Producers and Researchers. Emmerdale or Coronation Street. Inclusive helped us secure access production companies, Signpost Productions and to a killer cast and get We used the Diversity Development Fund to launch Beacon Films, offer courses for Deaf, Disabled them on a character initiatives like Amplify: The Companies, which and Neurodivergent people. See page 53 for sizzle tape ready to pitch. champions 10 production companies owned by more information about ITV Academy. Amplify has been a great platform in building a lasting and valuable relationship with ITV.” Ché Chumber and Anton Inwood, Acclaimed Content, participants in Amplify: The Companies Step Up 60 was such a pivotal experience for my career in TV as a Director. It has equipped me with the fundamental tools and confidence I need to further myself in the industry.” Charlene Wango, Step Up 60 participant on Rivals Step Up 60 Step Up 60 ITV Social Purpose Impact Report 2023 41