The broadcasting union Bectu has called for urgent and joined-up action from the UK government in response to the challenges facing the UK screen industries. In a letter to the culture secretary, Philippa Childs highlighted the deep concerns within the industry and pushed for an industry-wide summit to discuss possible solutions. The current situation for UK freelancers in the film and TV industry is dire, with a significant portion of workers not currently employed.
A recent Bectu survey revealed that 68% of UK film and TV freelancers are currently not working, showing only a slight improvement from previous numbers. Even more concerning is the fact that 37% of freelancers are considering leaving the industry within the next five years. The pandemic has exposed the vulnerability of the workforce, with many freelancers falling through the gaps of government support schemes.
Childs criticized the culture secretary for stating that the creative industries are “booming,” highlighting the disparity between government rhetoric and the stark reality faced by industry workers. The current crisis facing freelancers in the UK film and TV industry is far from a production boom, as many workers struggle to find employment opportunities.
Calls for government intervention have been growing, with industry leaders urging the UK chancellor to take action to support struggling freelancers in the indie film sector. The freelancer crisis in the UK is at an all-time low, with a combination of factors contributing to the challenges faced by workers in the industry.
Childs has urged broadcasters to engage in open and honest conversations about the crisis, emphasizing the need for collaboration and support within the industry. An industry-wide summit is needed to bring together stakeholders and government officials to address the challenges and find solutions to support freelancers in the UK film and TV industry.
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