Over recent months, my involvement with the Citizens’ Public Service Media (PSM) Forum has deepened my understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing public service media in the UK. Representing Decentered Media and working with Better Media in this coalition of civic organisations, I have worked alongside passionate advocates committed to ensuring that public service media continues to play a vital role in shaping our democratic and cultural life.
Public service media is more than just another part of the media landscape; it is a vital resource that fosters informed citizenship, social cohesion, and cultural identity. However, its future is under threat. Through the Forum, we have sought to ensure that government policies protect and enhance PSM’s foundational principles, particularly in the face of political, economic, and technological pressures.
My personal commitment to this work stems from a belief that policy development must reflect a broad and inclusive range of perspectives. Too often, grassroots and community voices are overlooked in favour of larger, more powerful interests. This risks leaving behind those local and independent initiatives that make our media landscape truly diverse and representative. As part of the Forum, I have advocated for these perspectives to be at the centre of decision-making.
One of the most pressing challenges we face is safeguarding universal access to PSM. For decades, organisations like the BBC have ensured that high-quality, impartial content is available to all, regardless of their ability to pay. Yet, funding cuts and the push towards subscription models risk undermining this principle, particularly for those on lower incomes. Universal access must remain a cornerstone of PSM if it is to continue serving all citizens.
Equally important is maintaining the independence of PSM institutions from political and commercial interference. The BBC and Channel 4, in particular, must remain accountable to the public rather than being shaped by government agendas or market demands. This requires meaningful reform of their governance and funding processes, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Digital platforms now play an outsized role in determining what media reaches audiences. Their algorithms and commercial priorities often sideline the socially valuable programming that defines PSM. Without strong regulation to ensure fair access and investment, these platforms could erode PSM’s reach and influence. This is a key area where action is needed to level the playing field.
Throughout these discussions, I have highlighted the importance of connecting public service media with local communities. Community media provides a space for grassroots voices, reflecting the diversity of experiences and perspectives across the country. National policies must empower these initiatives, ensuring they are not crowded out by larger players in the media ecosystem.
The Forum has also called for a renewed focus on the societal value of PSM. This includes establishing clear criteria to evaluate how PSM contributes to democracy, cultural engagement, and community development. Such metrics can help ensure that public service media remains aligned with the needs and aspirations of citizens, now and into the future.
Looking ahead, my colleagues and I remain committed to ensuring these issues stay at the forefront of policy discussions. This work is not just about defending what exists today but about building a stronger, more inclusive framework for public service media—one that empowers all citizens and strengthens our shared democratic culture.
Through collaboration, dialogue, and persistence, I believe we can renew and reinvigorate public service media to better reflect and serve the society it is part of. This is a challenge worth taking on, and I look forward to continuing this important work.