Industry

ITV Studios relaunches its Disabled Writers in Development programme, partnering with four scripted labels: Big Talk Studios, Hartswood Films, Quay Street Productions and Silverprint Pictures. The initiative is designed to expand opportunities for Deaf, Disabled and/or Neurodivergent writers, and is backed by ITV’s £1m Diversity Development Fund, created to support new ideas and emerging talent.

Participants will be paired with editorial teams from the four labels to develop an original project from treatment through to script. Completed scripts will be shared with the ITV Drama Commissioning team. The programme also includes bi-monthly masterclasses led by industry specialists, offering insight into writing, development and commissioning, as well as networking opportunities. Sessions will be overseen by Natasha Dawkins, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Coordinator and programme lead. Applicants must submit an original script sample and have at least two paid professional writing credits across TV, theatre, short film or radio. The programme is open exclusively to Deaf, Disabled and/or Neurodivergent writers. Submissions are now open and close on May 26 at 23:59.

Natasha Dawkins, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Coordinator and Disabled Writers in Development lead said: “I'm thrilled to be leading the 2026 edition of the ITV Studios Disabled Writers in Development programme and working with such incredible partners. Although the industry, ITV and ITV Studios have made great progress in addressing and improving disability equity, it's paramount that we continue creating opportunities for underrepresented talent to share their brilliant stories and I hope we can deliver just that.”
Kenton Allen, CEO and Executive Producer, Big Talk Studios, said: “If we want a more original, more representative and ultimately more successful industry, we have to keep widening the talent pipeline. This programme is about action, not aspiration - finding exceptional Deaf, Disabled and Neurodivergent writers, backing distinctive voices and making sure brilliant storytellers aren’t locked out of opportunity. At Big Talk, we’re proud to be part of a programme that is focused on real development, real access and discovering the next generation of standout voices.”

Helena Murphy, Head of Development at Hartswood Films said: “Hartswood is delighted to be taking part in this year’s programme. We love writers and are looking forward to finding some fresh voices to collaborate with over the next year.”
Nicola Shindler, CEO & Executive Producer at Quay Street Productions said: "At Quay Street, we always make sure the writers and their vision are at the heart of our storytelling. The Disabled Writers in Development programme offers us an exciting opportunity to continue our goals around supporting talent from underrepresented groups, and we are excited to play our part in making our industry more inclusive and accessible for all."
Antonia Gordon, Development Director at Silverprint Pictures said: “We are incredibly excited to be taking part in the Disabled Writers in Development programme this year to support and champion the talent, stories and craft of Deaf, Disabled and Neurodivergent writers. At Silverprint Pictures, we recognise and celebrate how much diversity and inclusion enriches our industry and elevates the shows we make and watch. We are proud to be a part of propelling this much-needed enduring, structural change and can't wait to get started with the programme."