Welsh pubcaster S4C call for social media content, YouTube docs

Welsh-language public broadcaster S4C is planning a round of digital commissions and has opened a call for social media content.

Guto Rhun

The broadcaster is seeking content specifically created for social media, in a year-long package that may include returning formats, standalone ideas, topical content and videos produced for major cultural events and national awareness days.

Proposals are expected to demonstrate a clear understanding of the different audiences and requirements of each platform.

S4C is also calling for original factual documentaries for its YouTube channel, with individual commissions worth up to £40,000 (US$53,876) each. The pubcaster is looking for “distinctive stories driven by compelling characters and strong creative voices,” with the ambition of reaching audiences both in Wales and beyond.

The plans were unveiled by S4C’s digital content commissioner Guto Rhun during the annual S4C and TAC conference in Llandudno this month. Rhun was appointed to head the pubcaster’s digital-first strategy in September, having previously served as young audiences commissioner.

Rhun said: “As I begin my role as digital content commissioner, it’s incredibly exciting to be able to share not one, but two fantastic opportunities for new digital commissions.

“As S4C delivers its More Than a TV Channel strategy and moves towards a digital-first future, it is more important than ever that we meet our audiences where they are watching, with bold content that cuts through the noise.

“This is just the beginning of our work to develop a long-term strategy for our digital commissions on YouTube, and I look forward to working with my fellow commissioners and the production sector in Wales to bring that vision to life.”