Discovery UK Joins Creative Diversity Network

Discovery UK has joined the Creative Diversity Network (CDN), an industry body aiming to increase diversity on- and off-screen within the U.K. television industry.

“Diversity empowers a wide range of voices and ideas, pushing us and our colleagues in the television industry to think outside the box,” said James Gibbons, executive VP and general manager for the U.K. and Nordics at Discovery. “At Discovery, we understand the incredible value of diverse talent and we’re excited to continue taking action to create a more inclusive industry with Creative Diversity Network.”

Additionally, Discovery will become a “Diamond broadcaster,” collecting and reporting diversity data through CDN’s online monitoring system.

Among Discovery’s internal programs that encourage diverse talent is the RISE social good initiative. The company also runs a number of employee resource groups, including the Multicultural Alliance. Through the Women’s Network, Discovery supports women in progressing to executive roles and making the most of their skills. With priDe, Discovery supports the LGBTQ+ community on matters related to inclusion, recruitment, retention, development and advancement.

Taking action to encourage diversity within the broader media industry, Discovery has been involved in initiatives such as Screenskill’s Unscripted TV Skills Fund, investing in training and development for production roles across the indie community with a particular focus on diversity and inclusion and out-of-London. Discovery further has a longstanding partnership with Media Trust, engaging in the Emerging Talent mentoring program for diverse young people who wish to work in the creative industries.

CDN’s work includes creating and reporting on such initiatives as the Arts and Humanities Research Council-funded Everyday Diversity project in partnership with Glasgow University and the BFI. CDN’s activities are founded on an evidence-based approach provided by the data delivered by Diamond, which is used by other members, including the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Sky, ViacomCBS and UKTV. CDN is due to deliver the fifth Diamond annual report at the beginning of 2022. CDN is also responsible for the Doubling Disability program.

Deborah Williams, executive director of CDN, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Discovery to CDN as we continue to expand both our activities and our membership. Discovery is a significant and important commissioner of content from U.K. producers. By joining CDN and Diamond, they will increase our ability to provide and analyze data on how our industry is performing and help U.K. television become more diverse and more inclusive.”