S4C was established by the 1980/81 Broadcasting Acts and first went on air at 6.00pm on Monday 1 November 1982. Prior to S4C's establishment, the limited number of Welsh programmes produced were scattered throughout the schedules of BBC1 and ITV. Since 1982, all Welsh language television programmes, from whatever source, have been transmitted on S4C to create one comprehensive Welsh medium service.
Over the years, S4C has developed a distinctive role in the provision of public service broadcasting to a bilingual community. More recently, new technology such as the Internet and the advent of digital television in 1998, has enabled S4C to expand the service it provides.
S4C is a commissioning broadcaster, rather than a programme producer, creating jobs and boosting the local economy throughout Wales. S4C is funded by a combination of grant-in-aid from the Treasury and revenue generated by the activities of its commercial subsidiaries. The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport provides S4C with funds in order to carry out its activities according to a statutory formula set out in the Broadcasting Act 1996.
S4C's programmes are transmitted from S4C's Headquarters in Llanishen, Cardiff.
Further information regarding S4C is available on S4C's website and in the S4C Annual Report and Statement of Accounts.
© 2008 S4C
O Gymru / Made in Wales