Audience

Our primary target are the British Asian communities throughout the UK, with due acknowledgement of their younger age demographic. But that is really just an indicator of our 'tone of voice'. We want anyone who is interested in British Asian music, culture, debate, or lifestyle to listen - regardless of their age or ethnicity. We're aware that we are targeting an incredibly diverse set of people, but our research shows that there are certain things they have in common.

Celebrate

Our programmes aim for an upbeat, young-at-heart tone. While there's plenty that is challenging about the lives of young British Asians, they value entertainment, positivity and fun in their media. 'Celebrate' is about music, film, and showbiz - but it is also about showcasing the best of British Asian culture and influence.

Challenge

Young British Asians value the BBC, and the rigorous journalism on which its global reputation is built. They want us to tell it straight, and they don't like taboos or no-go areas. 'Challenge' is about high-quality journalism, surprising stories, and honest and open debate. It's also about difficult drama storylines and experimental new music.

Connect

We're talking to a predominantly urban audience, based in major cities across the UK. The Asian Network has a role to play in 'networking' virtual communities of listeners who share an interest in music, religion, culture, and lifestyle. Young British Asians are technologically-adept, highly brand-aware - and quick to interact on mobiles, red button TV, and online.

We recognise that family life is critical in British Asian life - and we aim to be a 'friend of the family'. We want to be bold, welcoming, spontaneous, engaging, 'national' and glamorous.

Programme Principles

Our journalism is 'urban' - it shows real people in real lives, and features the sounds of the streets in which they live and work. Our music policy predominantly focuses around British Asian artists, but we also feature Bollywood/South Asian and Urban music, with a commitment to supporting new homegrown talent and live music. We're a highly interactive station, inviting and featuring the views of our listeners wherever we can.

2008/2009

The Asian Network has been evolving its output in line with the principles detailed above, and this financial year we will again be commissioning at least 10% of our eligible output from independents. When the next commissioning round opens, details will be made available here.

Getting In Touch

Programme proposals will have to be submitted through the RAP system, although you can email a paragraph to me about your idea to see if it's something we'd be interested in. Have a look at our website and the Business Affairs and Compliance pages.

Mike Curtis
Network Manager, BBC Asian Network
email: mike.curtis@bbc.co.uk

Page last updated 6 May 2009