Channel 4 aims to offer subtitles on all programmes and films across TV and online by next January as part of a package of measures to improve its access services.
The core C4 channel currently subtitles about 90% of its shows, but the broadcaster plans to step this up, with a pledge to move towards 100% across its whole portfolio from next month. The move is a signifi cant step up for Film 4, which currently subtitles just 35% of its movies, More 4 (41%) and E4 (60%).
All new content will also be subtitled on +1 channels and online via the 4oD service on C4’s website and YouTube.
The move is above the 90% threshold that C4 and ITV are legally required to reach this year and will bring the broadcaster into line with the BBC, which has subtitled 100% of its shows since 2008.
Meanwhile, C4 plans to more than double the volume of content that is supported by audio descriptions for partially-sighted and blind viewers.
From September, Hollyoaks and Deal Or No Deal will carry the service for the first time in the first phase of a plan to grow audio descriptions to 20% by next January.
The moves come ahead of C4’s planned coverage of the 2012 Paralympic Games and have also been put in place in light of the reaffirmation of its public service role in the recent Digital Economy Act.
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