ITV Studios announces the return of the Disabled Writers in Development Programme
The programme aims to expand and elevate the talent pool of Deaf, Disabled and/or Neurodivergent writers in the industry following its successful initial launch in 2023 with Tall Story Pictures.
Today, ITV Studios announces the return of the Disabled Writers in Development programme, with four of their powerhouse scripted labels onboard: Big Talk Studios (Ludwig, The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13¾), Hartswood Films (Number 10, Sherlock), Quay Street Productions (Fool Me Once, Tip Toe), and Silverprint Pictures (Shetland, A Cruel Love: The Ruth Ellis Story).
The programme aims to expand and elevate the talent pool of Deaf, Disabled and/or Neurodivergent writers in the industry, funded by ITV’s £1m Diversity Development Fund, which was established to develop new ideas and talent.
Writers will each be supported by one of the editorial teams at Big Talk Studios, Hartswood Films, Quay Street Productions and Silverprint Pictures to write their treatment and script, developing their own original idea through to script, which will be shared with the ITV Drama Commissioning team upon completion.
Writers will also benefit from bi-monthly masterclasses with industry specialists to create opportunities to network and further develop an understanding of writing, development and commissioning processes led by Natasha Dawkins, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Coordinator and Disabled Writers in Development lead.
To apply, writers are being asked to submit an original sample script. Applications are open to Deaf, Disabled and/or Neurodivergent people only and writers should have at least two professional writing credits (for television, theatre, short film or radio which they have been paid for).
Applications are now open via this link and will close on Tuesday 26 May at 23:59.
For more information, full criteria and to apply visit this page.
Following its successful initial launch in 2023 with Tall Story Pictures, Disabled Writers in Development has already seen one participant secure a writing credit on Tall Story Pictures hit show, The Bay.
ITV continues to champion diversity through its mainstream content; in 2025 the broadcaster relaunched its Diversity Commissioning Fund which ring-fences £80m of the content budget to be spent over the next three years (2025–2027) and doubled its Diversity Development Fund investment to £1 million over the same period to continue driving change towards racial and disability equity, helping to develop new ideas and talent.
Natasha Dawkins, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Coordinator and Disabled Writers in Development lead said: “I'm thrilled to be leading the 2026 edition of the ITV Studios Disabled Writers in Development programme and working with such incredible partners. Although the industry, ITV and ITV Studios have made great progress in addressing and improving disability equity, it's paramount that we continue creating opportunities for underrepresented talent to share their brilliant stories and I hope we can deliver just that.”
Kenton Allen, CEO and Executive Producer at Big Talk Studios said: “If we want a more original, more representative and ultimately more successful industry, we have to keep widening the talent pipeline. This programme is about action, not aspiration – finding exceptional Deaf, Disabled and Neurodivergent writers, backing distinctive voices and making sure brilliant storytellers aren’t locked out of opportunity. At Big Talk, we’re proud to be part of a scheme that is focused on real development, real access and discovering the next generation of standout voices.”
Helena Murphy, Head of Development at Hartswood Films said: “Hartswood is delighted to be taking part in this year’s scheme. We love writers and are looking forward to finding some fresh voices to collaborate with over the next year.”
Nicola Shindler, CEO & Executive Producer at Quay Street Productions said: "At Quay Street, we always make sure the writers and their vision are at the heart of our storytelling. The Disabled Writers in Development scheme offers us an exciting opportunity to continue our goals around supporting talent from underrepresented groups, and we are excited to play our part in making our industry more inclusive and accessible for all."
Antonia Gordon, Development Director at Silverprint Pictures said: “We are incredibly excited to be taking part in the Disabled Writers in Development programme this year to support and champion the talent, stories and craft of Deaf, Disabled and Neurodivergent writers. At Silverprint Pictures, we recognise and celebrate how much diversity and inclusion enriches our industry and elevates the shows we make and watch. We are proud to be a part of propelling this much needed, enduring, structural change and can't wait to get started with the programme."
