BBC Charter Renewal

Tapadh leibh airson ùidh a ghabhail ann an Cairt a BhBC agus na cothroman a dh’fhaodadh a bhith na lùib airson BBC ALBA.

Thank you far taking an interest in the BBC Charter review and how it could improve BBC ALBA. 

Carson a tha seo cudromach | Why this matters

The renewal of the BBC Charter is a once-in-a-decade opportunity to secure the long-term future of Gaelic broadcasting. Right now, BBC ALBA does not have the same legal protections, funding security or prominence as Welsh-language channel S4C. The gap of almost £100 million is significant and growing.

Na tha sinn a’ moladh | Our recommendations 

  1. Maoineachadh Seasmhach | Secure funding

The Secretary of State, in consultation with Scottish Ministers, should determine annual funding for BBC ALBA and Radio nan Gàidheal in the same way and at the same time as S4C.

This should clearly state:

  • What funding comes from the Licence Fee via the BBC
  • What funding Scottish Ministers provide via Ofcom for MG ALBA

This would provide stability, clarity and parity.

  1. Cothrom nas fheàrr BBC ALBA a lorg | Make BBC ALBA easy to find

Ofcom should require prominence for BBC ALBA on BBC iPlayer.

This could include:

  • A single-click Gaelic homepage
  • Personalised or geographic discovery options
  • Clear visibility alongside other national language services
  1. Luchd-amhairc eadar-nàiseanta | Let the world watch

Gaelic content should be available internationally.

This could mean:

  • Removing geo-blocking for Gaelic content
  • Creating a dedicated international BBC ALBA platform
  • Recognising the global Gaelic diaspora
  1. Dìon an t-seanail | Protect the channel

The Charter should guarantee the continuation of a linear BBC ALBA service.

Leugh am pàipear fiosrachaidh | Read the full briefing paper

Download the full briefing: Briefing Note for BBC Charter

 

GABH PÀIRT | HOW TO TAKE ACTION 

Ceann-là | Deadline: 10 March 2026

  1. Leugh a’ cho-chomhairleachaidh | Read the consultation

Access it here: Britain’s Story: The Next Chapter – BBC Royal Charter Review, Green Paper and public consultation – GOV.UK

  1. Lìon an suirbhidh | Complete the survey

Complete the survey here: BBC Charter Review Public Consultation
(Question 4 refers specifically to Gaelic media.)

  1. Cuir post-d fa leth | Send a fuller response by email

Email: bbccharterreview@dcms.gov.uk

  1. Cuir peann ri pàipear | Write a letter

Ensure it arrives by the deadline:

BBC Charter Review Team
Department for Culture, Media & Sport
100 Parliament Street
London
SW1A 2BQ

TAPADH LEIBH | THANK YOU