BBC backs initiative to support Northern documentary film-making

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A new initiative to support documentary film making in the North of England has been backed by the BBC.

Led by Salford filmmaker Mike Todd, Northern Docs, has been established as a community interest company to back northern-based talent and increase the amount of output from the region.

“Despite the undoubted success stories that exist, there remain real structural challenges for documentary storytellers who seek to build a career outside London. We’re hoping that Northern Docs can help support and nurture talent and improve the documentary eco-system that exists in this part of the country,” said Todd.

With the BBC it is launching a talent development scheme, and an open call for short form ideas has gone out to for people who don’t have a directing credit from a national broadcaster.

A shortlist of 6 finalists will receive mentoring and support on their projects, with 2 applicants getting the chance to make and air their documentaries on BBC Three.

Further details can be found on the Northern Docs website.

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“The BBC is committed to diversity in all its forms and it is important to us that our programmes represent on and off screen voices from around the UK. I’m really excited about embracing this opportunity to support the next generation of filmmakers in the North of England,” added BBC’s Head of Factual Alison Kirkham.

Northern Docs is also being supported by the University of Bolton, who will provide a home for the organisation and offer administrative and organisational support.

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