The BBC should take more risks when producing new programmes in order to better connect with audiences from lower socio-economic groups, according to a new study published today by UK media regulator OfCom.
While "working class audiences" on average watch more TV and do still feel a connection to the BBC - especially for news and coverage of big events - OfCom says that participants in its research "felt there was little representation on the BBC of what they called 'normal, working-class lives'”.
“Even when they did see ‘people like them’ represented in BBC programmes”, it adds, “they felt the portrayal often reverted to stereotypes or ‘tokenist’ characterisations". As a result, many people are turning to online content “to find newer voices that relate, more authentically, to their real-life experiences".
Some of those surveyed also said that they felt the BBC didn't necessarily sign-post its newer content particularly well, contrasting the BBC's channels and platforms with streaming services and social media, which allow for more personalised navigation of what's on offer.
"Overwhelmingly", OfCom continues, "people in the study want to see the BBC taking greater risks in producing new content and making sure audiences know about the variety of programmes available".
The regulator notes that BBC bosses are already seeking to address the issues raised in its study when commissioning new content. However, "the BBC should carefully monitor whether this new content is cutting through and consider what further action may be needed".