TV Access Project

"The TV Access Project (TAP) is delighted to see the continued steady growth in the representation of Deaf, Disabled and/or Neurodivergent workers across the industry, particularly given the difficult years of the industry downturn, which disproportionately impacts underrepresented groups. This signals that the work the industry has collectively done is translating into greater representation both on and off screen.

We can surmise from the data – and based on current industry trends - that it is unlikely that the increase in numbers is not only from new workers entering the industry, but also a greater confidence in those already established within the industry to disclose or identify as Deaf, Disabled and/or Neurodivergent. This demonstrates a positive culture shift and I hope that The TV Access Project's 5As have contributed to this.

The increase we can see in this year's report compared to 2021 comes predominantly from those who identify as neurodivergent - which aligns with wider cultural and societal awareness and diagnoses of neurodivergence. We have heard from many organisations who have been investing in training and guidance to make their productions and work environments more inclusive for neurodivergent workers.

The main concern is the minimal or absent increase in those who may experience physical barriers to access, such as those who identified as Blind or visually impaired, Deaf or hard of hearing, or with a Musculoskeletal disability. We need to continue breaking down these barriers. Firstly, we launched the Access Description Checklist in partnership with CDN, a self-audit for fixed spaces in the industry to assess the accessibility of their environments. This enables organisations to communicate their access to freelancers coming in to work in their space and also create roadmaps for improving accessibility.  

The TV Access Project members also have the Access Funding Request available on their commissions, a dedicated fund for unanticipated access costs on production, which sits outside the production budget. This demonstrates our commitment that funding for access should never be a barrier to hiring Deaf, Disabled and or/Neurodivergent talent both on and offscreen.

Heloise Beaton, Senior Project Lead
TAP (TV Access Project),
July 2026