ITV and FTVC expand freelancer initiative

ITV and the Film and TV Charity are doubling the cohort for the next iteration of its freelancer initiative Green Room.

The initial pilot of the ITV Green Room took place earlier this year in London where 21 freelancers joined a supportive peer network and were offered access to industry mentors from across ITV, including commissioners. They were also able to attend workshops covering topics like AI and CV clinics with ITV Studios labels.

In partnership with FTVC, ITV has doubled Green Room and is seeking 50 freelancers to take part in the programme. It is also expanding its presence to include Manchester and Cardiff hubs, as well as London.

The programme is designed to support freelancers between roles and offer connection and community, following the results of FTVC’s Looking Glass Survey. The initiative was born out of ITV’s Mental Health Advisory Group which consists of senior leaders across ITV and mental health experts.

The three hubs, which will allow access to office space, speakers and mentors, will be in White City, in Cardiff with Boom Cymru and with ITV Studios in Salford Quays. Applications open today. 

A participant of the initial pilot scheme for the Green Room called the group “a necessary, if not vital, programme in today’s climate,” and freelancers taking part in the pilot saw an overall 33% reduction in loneliness based on the UCLA-3-Item Loneliness Scale.

Marcus Ryder, the Film and TV Charity’s chief executive officer said: “ITV’s Green Room demonstrates the level of positive impact we can achieve when industry partners collaborate.

“Its success has led to ITV expanding it across the UK, creating a practical model of support that strengthens social connection and resilience across the screen workforce. I hope other broadcasters will emulate their efforts to support freelancers.”

ITV’s DEI & talent lead Nahrein Kemp added: “The success of the initial pilot of the Green Room proved that there was more that we as an industry can do to support freelancers.”

Sarah Hunt, head of strategy and communications, social purpose at ITV, added: “ITV’s Mental Health Advisory Group is committed to addressing the challenges we face in the industry that impact people’s mental health. The initial pilot of the Green Room was a brilliant start, showing the importance of bringing people together and providing a space to work, access to decision-makers and insight into the industry to help boost people’s skills, confidence and networks.

“We’re thrilled to be going again – this time taking the support to Cardiff and Manchester too.”