Ofcom has published its proposed 2021/22 Plan of Work outlining its priorities for the next financial year, which include:

• 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; Ofcom will also work to make sure the universal postal service is sustainable for the future;
• fairness for customers: continuing its 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 complete the introduction of the new regime regulating UK-established video-sharing platforms the Government has also stated that it is minded to appoint Ofcom as the regulator for online harms and it is preparing for this potential new role.

In addition, Ofcom says that it will take steps to ensure it is well positioned to carry out its duties both now and in the future. This includes:

• strengthening Ofcom for the future: as Ofcom’s sectors and its duties are increasingly shaped by online services, the regulator will evolve its skills, develop innovative working practices and build a diverse workforce that reflects the whole of the UK; and
• developing new partnerships: Ofcom will develop new, and build on existing, domestic and international partnerships with regulators, academia, governments, industry and organisations across the sectors it regulates;

Ofcom says that it welcomes responses to its proposed Plan of Work by 5 pm on 5 February 2021. It will also be holding a number of virtual events to gain feedback on the proposed plan, with more information being available on its website. The final plan is set for release in March 2021. To access the proposed Plan of Work, click here.