UK broadcast regulator Ofcom has set new rules that will boost the amount of TV programmes made specifically for sign language users.
From next January, smaller TV channels — with an audience viewing share of between 0.05% and 1% – will be required to up their amount of British Sign Language-presented programmes form 30 minutes to 75 minutes per month.
As an alternative, channels can currently contribute a minimum of £20,000 (€27,840) a year to help make sign-presented TV programmes available – a figure that Ofcom said “will also rise in real terms.”
Channels that opt to make the financial contribution usually support the British Sign Language Broadcasting Trust (BSLBT), which funds sign-presented content shown on the Community Channel and Film 4.
