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A new report from the Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity shows that diversity initiatives in UK television newsrooms are falling short. In some cases, they even perpetuate the very problems they aim to solve, leaving minority ethnic journalists facing persistent racism, stalled career progression, and a growing backlash that undermines genuine inclusion.

Diversity schemes: access without advancement

The report, ‘Breaking’, compiled by ITN's global security editor Rohit Kachroo and Dr Ellie Tomsett of Birmingham City University, draws on anonymous testimony from 80 on- and off-screen journalists. While diversity schemes have opened doors for some, many participants say these initiatives have not delivered meaningful change where it matters most: editorial power, newsroom culture, and career progression.

63 per cent of respondents said they had experienced racism at work.

70 per cent reported insufficient opportunities for career progression.

Several journalists recruited through diversity schemes said they felt stigmatised as "diversity hires", rather than being recognised for their merit.

One respondent described the newsroom as an "apartheid newsroom", where people of colour are concentrated in junior roles while white colleagues dominate senior positions........

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