Fit4Purpose Campaign

The Covid-19 pandemic and the chronic skills shortage in the UK theatre sector have highlighted that terms and conditions and pay need to be urgently addressed and modernised.

As the sector continues its post-pandemic recovery, Bectu members are clear that they want to work with employers to overhaul agreements in order to safeguard the long-term future of the industry.

We know that work/life balance, 6-day working, an opt out on Sunday working, and extending the scope of the Bectu/SOLT agreement to cover grades not currently included are key concerns for our members, and addressing these is critical to ensure a thriving West End that is fit for the future.

The UK theatre industry must modernise. Fit4Purpose aims to alter the nature of the theatre industry and create a fairer, healthy working environment for all staff and freelancers in the long term. We are calling for:

• A pay increase to match inflation
• Sundays back to double time with opt out
• A basic wage that recognises the value of your skills
• Consistency across departments, simplifying anomalies and equal pay gradings
• Focus on work/life balance and workers’ health and safety
• A fit for purpose, modern industry where theatre is made differently, and more.

Society of London Theatres (SOLT) pay claim

The current Bectu/SOLT agreement expires in October 2023. As part of negotiations Bectu is seeking not only a decent pay increase but also a commitment to review the agreement. Read more about the pay claim and our proposals.

“The low-paid don’t get many choices – it’s food or travel, not both.”

Stage door keeper

“It feels like I gave everything to my employer during the pandemic, to ensure that the industry could stay afloat. We can’t keep going like this, the industry needs to treat its workers better.”

Costume designer

“I love my job, but we deserve a work-life balance like everyone else. If things don’t get better, I’ll be following many of my colleagues who’ve left theatre altogether.”

Lighting technician