Commissioning a More Inclusive Future - A Deaf Woman's 25-Year Journey to Transform UK Television!

At InSignLanguage, we are extremely passionate about sharing stories of resilience, accessibility, and professional journeys that inspire change and impact. In the second podcast episode, our host Deeshi signs with an influential TV Commissioner, Caroline, whose two-decade career path reveals how dedication and advocacy are actively shaping a more inclusive future for the screen industry. Her career path is a powerful narrative of progression, from a researcher in Deaf programming to a Commissioning role at the BBC, while actively dismantling barriers for others in the industry.

From Deaf Programming Mainstream Powerhouse

Caroline’s television journey began straight out of university, while her experience was culturally enriching, her ambition soon propelled her to mainstream television, covering a range of different genres.

Today, in her commissioner role at the BBC, she manages a high-profile portfolio that includes series like Escape to the Country, Richard Osman’s House of Games, Garden Rescue and Pointless. Her job is multifaceted: monitoring compliance, keeping long-running shows fresh, and, most excitingly, commissioning new ideas. Occasionally, there are collaboration opportunities where Caroline works cross genre or cross department to ensure authentic portrayal and narrative with projects that feature the Deaf community.

Co-Founding a Movement: Breaking Industry Barriers

One of Caroline’s significant achievement was co-founding Deaf & Disabled People in TV (DDPTV). Born from a shared frustration over the barriers that push talented individuals out of the industry, the group has grown exponentially to over 2,000 members now.

The mission is clear - to eliminate obstacles for Deaf, Disabled, and Neurodivergent professionals. DDPTV  liaises with major broadcasters to drive change and works with initiatives like the TV Access Project, set up by Jack Thorne which aims to create a fully inclusive industry by 2030.

The Visible Victory of Belonging

While the career is rewarding, Caroline acknowledges the "extra admin" of inclusion in everyday life is the hardest part. Despite this, she has found a genuine sense of Belonging at the BBC, largely due to the support and cultural shift happening within the team.

In a truly inspiring development, her colleagues have been learning British Sign Language, with many now chatting directly with her in the office. This move toward embracing basic BSL in the workplace has transformed her experience, reinforcing that cultural understanding creates community.

Be Brave: Being Assertive is the Key to Accessibility to others navigating the industry, her message is one of an empowerment: Be assertive.

Caroline emphasizes that deaf professionals should never feel ashamed to ask for what they need. It is important for non-disabled people to adapt and learn through conversations. Being kind and assertive about your own access requirements really goes a long way to support inclusive learning journeys and create a more accessible industry.

Leveraging a Different Perspective

In a position of influence,Caroline views her role as an opportunity to advocate for the underrepresented. She reiterates that diversity is a fundamental strength.

The ultimate takeaway is a call to allyship - a reminder that a simple question like, "Are there any access adjustments needed?" can transform a person's experience. It’s about being kinder and recognizing that access is broad and could be linked to anything from language needs, to being a carer and using one's influence to make sure everyone in the room feels seen, heard, and included.

Conclusion: The Future of TV is built on Resilience and Belonging

It’s a wonderful reminder that the Deaf community can succeed across all industries and every story matters!

Caroline’s journey is irrefutable proof that resilience, assertiveness, and an unwavering commitment to inclusion can fundamentally transform an entire industry. Her success at the highest level not only paves the way for Deaf professionals but powerfully reinforces the idea that true strength lies in celebrating and integrating all perspectives.If Caroline had to sum it all up in one word? Belonging.

At InSignLanguage, we believe stories like Caroline’s are crucial in reshaping workplaces into inclusive, accessible space for everyday life.

If Caroline’s TV story resonated with you, make sure to tune in and follow the InSignLanguage podcast, and share it with others who need to hear about DDPTV and the future of accessible media!

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