Channel 5 has announced a slate of commissions from seven BAME-owned and managed production companies – a result of its BAME indie initiative launched last September.

The scheme teamed nine small and medium-sized production companies with Channel 5 commissioners, with the aim of supporting their delivery of mainstream programmes for the channel.

In collaboration with the TV Collective, a range of projects has been commissioned from the following BAME-led indies: Meridian Line Films, Afro-Mic, Chatterbox, Ten66 Television, Doc Hearts, Big Deal Films and King of Sunshine Productions.

The two remaining companies participating in the initiative, Clockwork Films (with Daisybeck Studios) and Chapter 1 Films are in a funded development partnership.

Ben Frow, Director of Programmes, ViacomCBS Networks UK said: “It has been a delight to partner with Simone at the TV Collective to help diversify the production companies we work with and bring new perspectives to our programme-making.

“She has been a brilliant advocate of Channel 5”s BAME initiative and I”m thrilled to bits that each of these indies has landed a much-deserved commission. In order for our industry to become more representative both on and off-screen, it is imperative that we all take meaningful steps to embrace the range of talent that is out there.”