Channel 4 launches Paralympic alumni network

The launch follows 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.

People with a Paralympic Games credit from 2012 onwards, and those who have been part of 4Skills’ Paralympic Production Training Scheme (PTS), can join the network and access practical support for career progression and professional development.

It joins other Channel 4 initiatives that advocate for greater industry access and inclusion, including the mentoring programme RISE, in partnership with TripleC, for mid-senior disabled talent.

Meanwhile, 4Connect, in collaboration with Deaf and Disabled People in TV, offers genre-focused sessions that pair off-screen talent with productions. 

The TV Access Project (TAP), initiated by Jack Thorne, also remains a high priority for Channel 4. The broadcaster is collaborating on the pan-industry project to improve access for disabled talent.

The channel’s Commissioning Diversity Guidelines set a benchmark that at least 10% of every production team should identify as disabled, and require senior-level editorial input from disabled creatives on all core disability programming.

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.”

Channel 4 recently detailed the plans for its coverage of the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games. Discover more here.