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September 2023 - Media and PR

75% of TV and film workers are currently not working: A survey from film and TV union Bectu has found that 75% of TV and film workers are currently not in work, with 80% having their employment directly impacted by the USA industrial disputes.

The survey by Bectu involved nearly 4,000 TV and film workers from across the UK, all of whom were freelance workers. The respondents outlined the impact the USA strike action is having on their employment, mental health and finances. Respondents included people who work behind the scenes, background artists and fashion workers.

The survey also found that 90% of respondents are worried about their financial security and 60% of freelance TV and film workers are struggling with their mental health because of the loss of work. Another key finding is that 25% of the respondents said they did not see themselves working in the industry in the next five years.

Further findings reveal that 35% of workers are struggling to pay household bills, such as  rent or mortgages, with 15% reporting taking out a loan to pay bills. One in 10 have also considered moving back in with their family to help with the cost of living.

Speaking about the survey results, head of Bectu, Phillipa Childs said: “Much of the rhetoric surrounding the US dispute is about the actors, but as our survey shows the impact on crew and other film and TV workers is severe and cannot be underestimated. This is a workforce that has already faced incredible hardship throughout and following the pandemic and has now been hit by a second crisis in just a few years.”

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