UK Unions Voice Concerns about Government’s Hold-Up on Freelance Support
UK Unions Criticize Government for Missing Freelance Champion Appointment Deadline
UK unions representing freelancers in the television and film industry are expressing their frustration with the government for failing to meet a crucial deadline related to the appointment of a Freelance Champion. This role is intended to advocate for the rights of thousands of freelancers currently facing job insecurity.
Philippa Childs, head of the union Bectu, reached out to Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy late last year to convey her “deep disappointment” over the missed pre-Christmas deadline. With many freelancers still out of work, the urgency of the situation is clear.
For years, unions have advocated for the establishment of a Freelance Champion, a commitment made in last summer’s Creative Industries Sector Plan. At that time, the appointment was heralded as a significant victory by union leaders, who anticipated it would enhance support for workers in the sector.
A spokesperson for the Culture, Media and Sport department acknowledged the importance of freelancers, stating, “Freelancers play a vital role in the creative industries, helping to create world-class British film, music, TV, fashion and more.” The spokesperson assured that efforts are underway to appoint the best possible candidate for the role, promising an announcement “as swiftly as possible.”
Childs emphasized the critical nature of timely action, stating, “Key decisions which affect the employment rights of freelancers are being made right now with multiple consultations already under way. If we don’t get a Freelance Champion in post soon with enough resources, then freelancers will be ignored and let down once again.”
Support for Bectu’s call has also come from other prominent organizations, including Directors UK, the Design & Artists Copyright Society, and the Authors’ Licensing & Collecting Society.
Freelancers have long been the backbone of the UK’s TV and film industry. However, significant changes following the Covid-19 pandemic and recent strikes in the United States have left many without steady work, prompting some to transition to different fields. A survey conducted by Bectu around the announcement of the Freelance Champion indicated that nearly half of TV workers were unemployed at that time. Additionally, more than two-thirds reported financial struggles, while one in three expressed intentions to leave the industry within the next five years.
