Changing Times

When I first joined the BBC, as a reader in the Drama Script Unit, we trawled through every unsolicited script sent in by anyone at all, and if there was any hint of talent in the writing we sent an encouraging letter back, even if the format, layout and structure were misguided. If the writer showed a real spark we invited them in for a chat, and began getting to know them, so that we could either help them to develop ideas for particular slots, refer them on to appropriate script editors and producers, or invite them to workshops to learn what TV requires.

That was in 1989. The unit was based in North Acton and run by Tony Dinner. Half a dozen readers shared a room piled high with manuscripts and typewriters, and ate our lunch in the canteen at the top of the BBC rehearsal rooms, which gave us a strong sense of connection with the production process and our role in it. As the readers left and obtained contracts in script development or production, we took writers with us if we had developed a good working relationship with them. It was a very effective ladder of progression for all concerned, and a great way to support and develop writers for the BBC and ultimately the nation, given the BBC's public service remit.

The unit was disbanded in the early 1990's by Head of Drama Mark Shivas, and now the situation is very different. As far as I'm aware, it's virtually impossible for an unsolicited script without an agent's recommendation to get noticed in the drama department nowadays. The reasons are many, but the end result is that writers are now expected to know how to write for TV before they approach the BBC or any other company.

With the huge increase in media and writing courses, computer software programmes and internet resources, it's entirely possible for writers to do this. TV production is no longer the mysterious preserve of elites, and the BBC no longer dominates the field to the extent it did. Opportunities have multiplied, but so have the aspiring writers, and the quality of their work is often very high. Competition has never been more intense, but the potential is still huge for anyone determined to perfect their skills and succeed. Anyone with a really desirable script and a proven ability to write will be in demand somewhere, sooner or later.

On the other hand you might decide to cut out all the middlemen, and join the internet pioneers, writing, creating and distributing your own work on the web. It worked a treat for the Arctic Monkeys.