Pact’s Indie Diversity Scheme 2023 Scotland cohorts begin placements

Introduced back in 2013 in London with the participation of 11 companies, this year's Indie Diversity Scheme by Pact has expanded to include 23 companies that have hired 23 young individuals coming from various backgrounds throughout London and Scotland.

During the last ten years, the Scheme has witnessed the involvement of 60 firms who have presented 133 young individuals with the prospect of entering the television arena by assigning them roles like programme co-ordinator, researcher, and production assistant.

The Indie Diversity Scheme in Pact Scotland has now been running for five years, and it is getting funding from both Pact Scotland and Screen Scotland. The scheme includes eight companies that focus on factual content such as Raise the Roof, Ricochet, STV Studios, Firecrest Films, Lion TV, Studio Something, BEEZR, and Storyboard Studios Ltd.

In addition to the paid internship that lasts for eight months with an independent organization, the individuals will have the opportunity to engage in various forms of training. Such training will include production bootcamps, workshops on how to improve one's CV, and a course on how to use cameras effectively. This will equip the participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the future aspects of their careers. Additionally, Pact will provide continued support to the participants even after their internships come to an end through an alumni group. This group will offer online masterclasses regularly and will be a platform where job opportunities will be shared to enable them to advance further.

John McVay, the CEO of Pact, spoke about the Scheme's 10th anniversary and stated that despite the difficulties independent production companies currently face, the Scheme's triumph demonstrates their commitment to supporting diversity and inclusivity.

Over the course of a decade, nearly 75% of trainees were able to remain in the industry thanks to the program. A recent survey conducted by a member of Pact revealed that 91% of participants believed that diversity and inclusion are crucial to their businesses in the forthcoming decade. This emphasizes the significance of initiatives like the Pact Indie Diversity Scheme and their continued importance moving forward.

I hope that all of the fresh members joining this year’s Program have a great career ahead.

The leader of Production at Screen Scotland named Steven Little has expressed that their organization is dedicated to building a workforce that is diverse and long-lasting for the screen industry in Scotland. They strongly believe that working in film or TV can be fulfilling and they strive to make it an equal and inclusive opportunity for all. By partnering with Pact, Screen Scotland can uphold its values and foster an environment where everyone can have a prosperous and diverse career in the screen industry in Scotland.

Jane Muirhead, the Chair and Managing Director of Raise the Roof Productions, expressed her pleasure in participating in the scheme in Scotland for the sixth consecutive year. She praised the Pact team for their unwavering dedication to discovering and presenting various talents that represent diversity. She stressed the importance of the program in supporting the industry's goal to create a genuinely diverse and inclusive space. She also expressed her excitement about the group's potential to introduce different perspectives, knowledge, and stories to the industry. Lastly, she stated her commitment to supporting their trainee and promoting their long-term career in television.