Bectu has issued a warning to production companies that they could become “less attractive” to freelancers if they refuse to work with sole traders.
It follows further discussions between the union and NEP UK over the company’s position that freelancers will be required to operate through personal service companies.
According to Bectu, the latest meeting failed to determine why the company is implementing the change.
According to Sean Kelly from the Bectu OB Network, a number of sole traders have told Bectu they are “considering turning down NEP UK as a client”, unless the company changes its position.
Kelly continued: “This gives a clear indication that freelance talent could find companies like NEP UK ‘less attractive’ to work for and ‘steer clear’ of those who try to impose changes on sole traders in this way.”
As the change was implemented on 1st February, and the company said it is “still listening” to freelancers, Kelly advises: “It’s vital that members considering leaving NEP let us know now, and we’ll pass it on urgently.”
