With the commissioning slowdown continuing to squeeze freelancers and early career creatives, those from working class backgrounds are feeling the strain most acutely. Lacking financial safety nets or established industry networks to fall back on, many are now questioning whether they can realistically afford to remain in the sector.

This session looks at what that pressure feels like on the ground for freelancers. And asks how we can stop losing the working-class talent that OFCOM frequently criticises broadcasters for failing to represent on and off screen.

Bringing together creatives who have built their careers from working class beginnings, the panel will explore the barriers that persist, the support that is missing and the distinctive value that working class perspectives bring to storytelling and decision making.