Channel 4 has launched OnTrack, a new Paralympic alumni network.
Following the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympic Games on Channel 4, where at least 25% of production company Whisper’s off-screen talent identified as disabled, the new initiative will ensure access to bursaries, masterclasses and events for senior deaf, disabled and neurodivergent off-screen talent.
Building on Channel 4’s legacy of championing disabled talent, OnTrack invites those with a Paralympic Games credit from 2012 onwards, and those who have been part of 4Skills’ ParalympicProduction Training Scheme (PTS) to join the network via OnTrack, a Paralympic alumni network, and access regular, practical support for career progression and professional development.
Other Channel 4 initiatives that advocate for greater industry access and inclusion include RISE, Channel 4’s mentoring programme, in partnership with TripleC, for mid-senior level disabled talent; 4Connect: Online networking in collaboration with Deaf and Disabled People in TV, 4Connect enters its fifth year, with genre-focused sessions that pair off-screen talent with productions. The Jack Thorne-initiated TV Access Project (TAP) also remains a “high priority” for Channel 4.
Ian Katz, Chief Content Officer at Channel 4, said: “Today marks another important moment in Channel 4’s unwavering commitment to driving long-term, sustainable change for disabled off-screen talent. Our expanded range of tailored initiatives including the new OnTrack network for Paralympic alumni, plus our vital partnership with TAP supports disabled talent, indies and producers to ensure disability inclusion is embedded at every level of the industry.
“Although there is still more to do to reach TAP’s goal of full inclusion by 2030, the work Channel 4 has done so far is evident in Diamond data, showing a rise in disabled creatives working on our productions. This is real progress and announcing these new and ongoing initiatives today demonstrates Channel 4’s ongoing commitment.”
Jon Creamer
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