Ofcom says that high-quality, reliable communications services have been more important than ever throughout the last year. These services will continue to be an essential part of people’s lives as the UK emerges from the coronavirus pandemic, and for years to come. Following consultation, including a series of public events, Ofcom has now set out its strategic priorities for the coming year:

• investment in strong, secure networks: supporting ongoing investment in faster broadband and better quality mobile networks, including working with industry to ensure the UK’s vital communications networks are safe, secure and resilient;
• getting everyone connected: working to ensure people and businesses can access key communications services, including in the hardest -to-reach locations; this includes monitoring delivery of the universal broadband service and the Shared Rural Network;
• fairness for customers: continuing work to ensure broadband, phone and TV customers, particularly those who are vulnerable, can shop around with confidence, switch easily and are treated fairly;
• supporting and developing UK broadcasting: supporting the UK’s vibrant media sector, including public service broadcasting, and helping them to meet the changing needs of viewers and listeners; Ofcom will also continue to monitor and report on the BBC’s performance; and
• preparing to regulate online harms: Ofcom will regulate UK-established video-sharing platforms, under the new regime; the UK Government has confirmed it intends to appoint Ofcom as the regulator for online harms and Ofcom is preparing for this planned new role.

Ofcom says that it will also take steps to ensure it is well positioned to carry out its duties both now and in the future.

The Plan of Work also includes Ofcom’s work programme for the next year, which explains the key activities it will be undertaking over the next 12 months across all of its work. To read Ofcom’s Statement in full, click here.

As part of Ofcom’s preparations for taking on new online safety responsibilities, it has also announced plans to open a new digital and technology hub in Manchester this summer. This will create up to 150 new jobs in the Manchester, drawing on the city’s reputation as a thriving centre for technology and innovation. To read Ofcom’s news release, click here.