S4C is to increase its commitment to access services by adopting a 100% subtitling target by the end of 2009.
This target for English subtitles is above the Ofcom requirement for S4C, but will be subject to rights.
In addition to S4C’s television service, English subtitles will also be provided on most programmes available to view on-demand on broadband, at s4c.co.uk/clic.
The subtitles are part of a package of services provided by S4C to help deaf, hard of hearing, blind and partially sighted people enjoy the Channel’s programmes.
Signing in British Sign Language (BSL), audio description and podcasts are among the other services provided on S4C programmes.
The subtitling news comes as S4C announces a package of new services for Welsh learners.
Welsh language education and publishing company, Acen, has won a contract in open competition to develop and extend the services currently available for learners.
Working with Cube Interactive, the company will develop content and applications for learners at all levels, whether language novices or fluent speakers.
Iona Jones, S4C’s Chief Executive, said, “The 100% subtitling target and range of other access services, along with our comprehensive resources for Welsh learners, form part of S4C’s commitment to making the Channel accessible to all viewers in Wales and across the UK.”
Ends
Editor’s notes:
• The owl icon, designed as part of S4C’s new brand identity, is the on-screen and online symbol for subtitles.
• Other access services are denoted by the following icons:
‘ok’ symbol: signing
, the 'speech bubble': audio description
• A booklet on S4C’s access services is available free of charge by contacting the S4C Viewers’ Hotline at 0870 6004141.
• For further information on how to access S4C’s subtitling services, please go to http://www.s4c.co.uk/e_subtitles_english.shtml
