Fierce competition for jobs, very low pay and 'ad hoc' training schemes are some of the factors that can serve to discourage many young people from entering the TV industry, according to a compelling new survey.

The results of the poll by Television and Young People (TVYP) of just over 1,000 young TV entrants are published as the scheme launches its 16th year.

The study reveals that young people entering the TV industry can expect an average starting salary of just £12,000 - just above the national minimum wage of £5.05 per hour (based on an average 40 hour week).

The figure looks particularly paltry when compared with the £23,000 median starting salary graduates can expect from members of the Association of Graduate Recruiters, according to figures released earlier this month.

The TVYP survey also revealed that 77% of young people had worked without pay for up to 3 months when trying to gain a foothold in the industry, with 12% working for free for over six months.

When it comes to the most popular employers, the BBC remains top of the pile, with 60% of respondents naming the organisation as their ideal employer. This was followed by 24% who voted for an independent production company and 10% who voted for Channel 4.

Joe Godwin, Head of Entertainment at CBBC and Chair of TVYP, says: "The British television industry needs to nurture young talent if it is to continue to produce the highest quality programming. However it is clear that areas of our industry are lacking in structured training programmes and that the cost of entry is simply too much for many people from lower income families.

"TVYP hopes to go some way in redressing the balance with a unique, free scheme that offers delegates the chance to get their foot on the first rung of the ladder, to experience the industry first-hand and make contact with some of the leading industry players."

Applications to TVYP open on 27 February, via the website www.tvyp.co.uk and close on 5th May. Thousands of applicants aged 18-21 are whittled down to a lucky 150 delegates who gain the chance to attend the free event, which this year takes place between 24th and 28th August in Edinburgh.

The training and development scheme offers talented young people the chance to meet, work with and learn from top TV insiders at the Edinburgh International Television Festival, through masterclasses, workshops and career surgeries.

The brightest delegates will also be given the opportunity to benefit from a mentored six month paid work placement at some of the most prestigious TV companies in the UK, through the TVYP at Work programme.