Ofcom regulation relaxed until end of September

Broadcasting regulator Ofcom has confirmed that it will continue to allow greater flexibility on regulation until the end September 2021, following further representations from Radiocentre and the commercial radio sector.

In a Coronavirus update note to broadcasters, Ofcom highlighted the extension of the regulatory forbearance period, recognising that restrictions remain in place across the UK and that planned routes to easing these restrictions over the course of the spring and summer varies by Nation.

Previously, forbearance was extended in November 2020 until the end of June 2021. This additional extension is welcome for radio stations that continue to face operational challenges, due to staff absence and illness as well as constraints on movement and travel of staff to key locations, alongside severe financial difficulty due to the collapse in the advertising market.

Despite these challenges commercial radio has continued to deliver significant value for audiences, not only in terms of even stronger news and information output, but also in broader types of public service content through initiatives on everything from mental health to charitable work, to providing a sense of community and companionship. The range, quality and consistency of commercial radio output continues to be notable, despite the shifts in production techniques and reduction in formal regulatory obligations.