CBeebies presenter wants more disabled people in TV

6th January 2012

CBeebies presenter Cerrie Burnell has spoken in support of a new BBC programme designed to recruit disabled talent.

The 32-year-old told the Manchester Evening News that she doesn't see herself as a disabled role model, but claims that having been born with her lower arm missing has probably prompted more awareness and acceptance of disabled people on TV.

"Anyone who works at CBeebies is seen as a role model by the children who watch it and their parents," Ms Burnell said, before adding that she is very lucky to have been given the opportunity and "very happy to be the person who is breaking down barriers".

She joined the kids TV channel in 2009 and received largely positive reactions from viewers, however some parents complained that their children were upset by the sight of her missing arm.

Cerrie remained calm in the face of hostility and plays down the reaction as being down to a lack of exposure to disabled people.

The TV star admitted: "There aren't enough disabled presenters or actors. There aren't enough disabled people in the media.

"It's better than it used to be, but there is still a lot of room for improvement," she said.

Cerrie Burnell is currently backing the PresentAble training programmed for disabled people which is designed to develop on-screen talent.

The nationwide search launched by BBC Vision is accepting online applications until the end of January and selected candidates will receive the chance to attend a screen test in one of six UK cities.

A final group of between six and ten people will then receive bespoke training during spring and summer, in the hope of developing their presenting skills.

The BBC has stressed that the scheme will provide candidates with the right background knowledge and practical experience to equip them with the best chances of finding presenting work, however it is not guaranteeing employment opportunities.

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