Improving freelancer conditions
Most directors are freelance.
Freelancers make up over 50% of the TV and film workforce - without them, nothing gets made.
They bring enormous value, but across the economy they have fewer rights and benefits than PAYE staff, often falling through the cracks of the UK’s tax, pension and benefits system. Their patterns of work can be insecure, unpredictable and their pay irregular. Freelancers are experiencing a crisis of instability in film and TV, if this isn’t addressed the industry - and economy - will suffer.
What we want
- Freelancer Champion – to work with the Government’s Freelancer Champion to advocate for freelancers within government and ensure cross-departmental policy affecting freelancers is joined up.
- Improve financial security for freelancers – better protections – pensions, tax, benefits, parental rights - that would make directing a sustainable occupation, accessible to all and not just the fortunate few.
- Improve employment practices – Government and industry to introduce policies to improve employment practices for freelancers and the self-employed. Government reviews of employment need to ensure that change strengthens, and does not disadvantage, freelancers.
- Improved data collection and monitoring of freelancers – better data will enable Government to formulate more effective policy in this crucial area.
What we’re doing
- Participating in the DCMS Self-Employed Working Group, advising on the development of the Freelancer Champion role; improving contracting practices; and developing guidance to support IP education and understanding for creators.
- Part of the Secretariat supporting the All Party Parliamentary Group for Freelancers chaired by Polly Billington MP. This will provide a dedicated parliamentary forum to reflect the realities of modern work and ensure this growing section of the labour force is properly represented.
- Contributing to government consultations and inquiries highlighting the value of freelancers and challenges they face.
- A member of the British Screen Forum Good Work Advisory Group, helping inform research and recommendations to improve working practices.
- Supporting research work that feeds into better evidence about the creative freelance workforce.
- Collaboration with Producer-Director Forum to maintain best practice.
Latest on freelancers
To request more information on Directors UK’s policy positions or to arrange a meeting, please contact [email protected]
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