28 August 2020

Many things have changed in TV over the past forty years - from four channels to hundreds, from bulky television sets to smart TVs - but one thing that hasn't changed since establishing in 1982 is S4C's passion for the Welsh language. As the only Welsh language television service, the language is central to the existence of S4C and is at the core of its provision.

As S4C publishes its Welsh Language Standards Annual Report for the financial year up to 31 March 2020, S4C is proud of its place and its duty to the language, and continues to support the language in every way possible, as an employer and in providing a service to the public.

Now more than ever in helping to reach the target of a million Welsh speakers by the year 2050, S4C is committed to supporting the use and development of Welsh to ensure its future as a viable language, socially and digitally, according to S4C's Chief Executive, Owen Evans.

"S4C has a place in our society, both at grassroots and digitally, as we aim for a million Welsh speakers. We continue to experiment and innovate with new ideas, and we are constantly trying to find the next thing to develop. The world around us is changing - very quickly, as 2020 has shown us! But S4C's values are the same as ever - the Welsh language is at the heart of what we do."

Owen Evans, S4C's Chief Executive

Over the year, S4C has pioneered to include the Welsh language on new platforms, particularly digital ones.

S4C's service for young people, Hansh, reached a tremendous milestone in March 2020, attracting a million viewing sessions across Twitter, Facebook and YouTube in one month for the first time ever.

Also, during the year under review, the S4C Clic player attracted 100,000 subscribers in just over six months. Since then, S4C has also developed Alexa's Welsh language skill, which is an innovative and exciting step for the language.

Owen Evans added: "S4C is approaching a very important milestone – its 40th anniversary! Over the last 40 years, S4C has offered a platform to use and develop the Welsh language. We have seen Cyw become a household staple to young families across Wales, and more recently, our digital service Hansh has attracted young people to enjoy and watch content in the Welsh language. But on top of that, S4C is here for everyone of all ages, and I can't wait to see what else will come as S4C continues to support the language in every way possible."

The Welsh Language Standards Annual Report is available on S4C's website.