Mayor Tracy Brabin and Screen Yorkshire have teamed up for a second time to help talented writers in West Yorkshire pivot to screenwriting.

‘The Mayor’s Script Diversity Programme’ will support budding scriptwriters into film and television opportunities through mentorship and a range of specialist masterclasses with commissioners and industry experts.

With a focus on breaking down the barriers for underrepresented groups, the three-month, part-time programme will give participants the skills and insight they need to get in and get on in the screen industry.

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said:

“West Yorkshire is fast becoming a powerhouse for film and TV, and it’s vital that local stories are part of that success.

“This initiative gives writers from underrepresented groups the tools,networks and confidence to break into screenwriting and thrive.

“It’s about talent, not background – and is another step towards a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire that works for all.”

Caroline Cooper Charles, Chief Executive of Screen Yorkshire, said:

“Screen Yorkshire is so excited to be delivering the Script Diversity Programme for a second time, supporting writers from all genres in their transition to screenwriting through learning from top industry professionals and expanding their networks. “The support from the Mayor of West Yorkshire is invaluable, allowing us to deepen our impact across West Yorkshire to ensure that our exceptional talent can grow and authentic regional stories can reach audiences across the globe”

Run by Screen Yorkshire, this initiative is funded by the West Yorkshire Mayor as part of her £4.2 million ‘You Can Make It Here’ programme, designed to support and grow the region’s creative industries.

It follows the success of the partnership’s existing initiative, ‘Beyond Brontës: The Mayor’s Screen Diversity Programme’ which, since its inception in 2019, has helped over 300 local participants from underrepresented groups access specialist training and go on to secure roles in TV and film production.

Beginning in October 2025, ‘The Mayor’s Script Diversity Programme’ is now open to people from underrepresented backgrounds with a track-record of writing for any genre, who live or work in West Yorkshire.

Find out more and apply here: https://www.screenyorkshire.co.uk/the-mayors-script-diversity-programme/