Disabled Filmmakers Mentoring Programme

Career-Progression Programme for Writers, Directors & Producers

We are launching an access-led mentoring programme for disabled filmmakers who want to take a meaningful next step in their screen careers.

This short, targeted programme will support five writers, directors and producers through 1–1 mentoring, group industry sessions and tailored access support. Informed by focus groups and interviews held with disabled filmmakers from across the Midlands earlier this year, the programme is designed to ensure disabled filmmakers have their needs met and supported throughout, helping them to make the most of the mentoring opportunity.

About the programme

This is a three-month programme designed to create a more accessible, sustainable mentoring model for disabled creatives working in film in the Midlands.

The programme will include

  • Three one-hour mentoring sessions with experienced trained industry professionals
  • Two group training sessions, as well as opportunities for future peer networking
  • Support from a dedicated Access Coordinator
  • A ringfenced budget to support access needs to support participation
  • Support from BFI NETWORK Talent Executives throughout the programme

Who Can Apply as a Mentee?

This programme is for you if:

  • You identify as a disabled filmmaker

  • You are a writer, director or producer who has yet to make their first feature film, or are moving into film from another art form.

  • You are based in the Midlands

  • You have a specific career goal you want to work towards over 3 months
    (e.g. securing representation, developing a project, accessing paid work, moving into TV, pitching to funders)

We welcome applications from:

  • Neurodivergent filmmakers

  • Deaf and disabled filmmakers

  • Those with physical, sensory, learning or mental health disabilities

Applications will be assessed by suitability for the programme and commitment to career progression, alongside ensuring we have the right mentor for you in our database.

Become a Mentor

We are also looking for industry professionals to join the programme as paid mentors. If you are interested in mentoring an emerging filmmaker, you can find more information below.

Apply to become a mentor 

Access support

This programme is access-led by design, not adapted at the last minute. We will be working with an access coordinator throughout to ensure that you have what you need to ensure that you can make the most of the opportunity.

We can offer:

  • Flexible meeting times

  • Audio, video or written applications

  • Captions, transcripts, recordings & BSL (where required)

  • Support workers

  • Flexible session lengths

  • Written follow-ups

  • Quiet breaks

Apply Now

We are now accepting applications for:

You can apply via:

  • Written form

  • Audio

  • Video

  • Or a supported 1–1 application call

For access support for your application, please contact bfinetwork@filmhubmidlands.org

Application deadline: Midday Monday 19th January 2026

Applicants will be informed of the outcome by Friday 23rd January 2026

Apply Here
Become a Mentor