ITV and the Film and TV Charity are extending freelance initiative Green Room to 50 individuals across London, Manchester and Cardiff.
The second iteration of the scheme more than doubles the number of places of its initial pilot, which offered 21 freelancers access to a supportive peer network and ITV mentors including CV clinics with ITV Studios labels and fact ent and entertainment commissioning sessions.
ITV at London's White City, Boom Cymru’s Cardiff office and ITV Studios’ Salford Quays site will host the cohort with office space, speakers and mentors.
The expanded programme aims to offer freelancers greater support between jobs and provide connection and community, including one day spent in ITV offices for each week of the scheme.
The pilot reported an overall 33% reduction in loneliness based on the UCLA-3-Item Loneliness Scale.
The initiative was born out of ITV’s Mental Health Advisory Group, which comprises senior leaders across ITV and mental health experts.
ITV head of strategy and communications, social purpose Sarah Hunt said the advisory group “is committed to addressing the challenges we face in the industry that impact people’s mental health”.
She added: “The initial pilot of the Green Room was a brilliant start, showing the importance of bringing people together and providing a space to work, access to decision-makers and insight into the industry to help boost people’s skills, confidence and networks.
F&TVC chief executive officer Marcus Ryder said he hoped the model could be adopted by other broadcasters looking to support freelancers.
“Green Room demonstrates the level of positive impact we can achieve when industry partners collaborate,” he said.
“Its success has led to ITV expanding it across the UK, creating a practical model of support that strengthens social connection and resilience across the screen workforce.”
The scheme runs from 19 January to 23 March next year. Applications open today and run to 24 November. For further details, click here.
