The BFI has unveiled a £1.5m pilot scheme with a package of measures to address the wellbeing of people working in the creative industries.
WorkWise for Screen is a free to access online portal and peer-to-peer network targeted at screen companies and heads of department in production, animation, VFX, gaming, and film distribution and exhibition.
As well as guidance and practical resources, it will include a podcast series, live talks and events, a newsletter and a quarterly magazine updating best practice, employment law and HR updates.
Launched with the backing of industry bodies from ScreenSkills to Pact and creatives such as director Bridget Caldwell and costume supervisor Melissa Cook, the National Lottery-funded initiative draws on the BFI’s Skills Review and research such as the Film and TV Charity’s Looking Glass mental health surveys.
It aims to be a one-stop shop for information on people management, inclusive leadership practice, approaches to wellbeing and anti- bullying and harassment and anti-racism practices; inclusive recruitment; HR policies; feedback mechanisms, including for freelancers; and work contracts for self-employed staff.
Part of its focus is to help the industry navigate and comply with the government’s incoming Employment Rights Bill, particularly changes linked to the use of freelancers, in a bid to start what BFI director of skills and workforce development Sara Whybrew said would be “a meaningful conversation about eradicating unpaid work”.
She added: “We produce world-class screen content in the UK, much of which is down to our talented workforce; brilliant people doing fantastic work in a dynamic and creative sector. However, widespread reports of people struggling with working conditions, mental health and their work-life balance, demands action, and we want to support industry to build fairer, safer and more inclusive workplaces.”
Film producer Joy Gharoro-Akpojotor said: “As an industry that relies so much on people, we don’t always put people first in our processes. As producers and storytellers, it’s our duty of care to ensure that those working behind and on screen should have access to adequate resources in order to create a more sustainable working environment.
“Hopefully, this new pilot will help shape an industry that puts people and their needs first in our creative endeavours at all times.”
ScreenSkills chief executive Laura Mansfield added: “Having helped shape the WorkWise for Screen programme alongside our partners, we welcome its launch as it will complement and enhance the resources currently available, providing guidance in areas such as employment law and workplace culture.
“We look forward to continuing our collaboration with WorkWise and, by building on existing progress, help to create a sector where equity, dignity, and respect are prioritised for all in the screen industries.”
