Ofcom defines media literacy as “the ability to access, understand and create communications in a variety of contexts”. ULTV envisages local TV promoting and encouraging media literacy; giving citizens the opportunity to develop the competence and confidence required to participate in digital society. It is anticipated that new local TV stations will motivate, inform and empower people to manage their own media activities, both as content consumers and content creators.

ULTV agrees with Ofcom that media literacy initiatives should form a coordinated approach to empowering citizens. Increased focus from government on a support programme
for multimedia skills acquisition, education and content creation could have a far-reaching impact. Such a programme is one which local TV operators and their partners would be well
placed to deliver.

Videos produced by media literacy projects are available for viewing on the Community Media website. http://medialit.commedia.org.uk/