The UK’s Film and TV Charity has published its second annual Money Matters report, examining the financial reality of the industry’s workforce.
The report, which draws on 2,000 responses from industry workers, found that three-quarters (74 per cent) are considering leaving due to financial pressure, while 43 per cent have already taken firm steps to leave.
Other key findings include:
- 22 per cent of respondents reported experiencing “sustained worklessness” (out of work at the time of the survey and had worked fewer than three months in the last year)
- Among those experiencing sustained worklessness, there’s an average gap of seven months between jobs
- 46 per cent of freelancers are finding it difficult to manage financially vs 27 per cent of permanent staff
Commenting on the findings, Marcus Ryder, CEO of the Film and TV Charity, warned that if the industry fails to address the financial pressures faced by its workers, it risks losing the collective expertise and creative excellence behind the UK’s TV and film output.
“These sectors drive growth, innovation and cultural influence, yet the talent behind them is being choked off by financial insecurity,” said Ryder.
“This report makes one thing clear: without meaningful, coordinated action, the film and TV industry faces a serious risk as more workers are forced to leave. We must commit to building a sustainable sector where people can build stable careers, weather gaps between jobs and save for the future. By working together—across policy, education, and employment practices—we can create an industry where talent is supported, valued, and able to thrive.”
The full report is available to read here.
