Channel 4 announces significant job cuts

Channel 4 has announced that it is to make 340 job cuts by the end of the year, a quarter of its workforce.

Channel 4 said it planned to focus on creating a simpler and more efficient operating model and enable greater investment in distinctive programming.

Head of Bectu Philippa Childs responded:

“These job cuts are a further blow to the UK TV industry which is struggling in the face of an increasingly competitive environment and significant reductions in advertising revenue.

“Like the BBC, C4 is a vital part of the industry and of our ability to produce uniquely British programming.

“Broadcasting and the creative industries are a key sector for the UK economy. Cuts of this scale, on top of cuts by other broadcasters, will be deeply worrying not only to people in Channel 4 fearing for their jobs, but to everyone who works in film and TV.

“Bectu has held initial talks with Channel 4 and will continue to engage with them and with our members in the coming weeks to ensure that those who may be affected are offered every possible support.”