Bectu responds to the UK Government’s new Creative Industries Sector Vision

The UK Government has today unveiled the Creative Industries Sector Vision – its shared ambition for the UK Government and industry to grow the creative industries by £50 billion and create 1 million extra jobs by 2030. Read more here.

Commenting, Head of Bectu Philippa Childs said:

“This sector vision recognises the creative industries’ huge economic potential and we welcome the Government’s commitment to prioritise and invest in the sector, in creative jobs and to build a future talent pipeline.

“If we are to equip the next generation with the skills and knowledge necessary to drive a thriving creative sector, and stem the skills shortages in parts of the sector, a sustained, tangible commitment to properly fund and cultivate arts education and training will be critical.

“Generating more creative jobs is a worthy goal, but the Government must ensure these opportunities are attractive and available to a more diverse talent pool, and that workers have a seat at the table to help address the sector’s key challenges and drive its future development.

“We know that many creative workers have left the sector or are considering leaving as they seek more stable employment, better pay and better conditions elsewhere. Post-Brexit EU touring restrictions also continue to create significant challenges for many creative workers and these must be scrutinised to ensure the sector and those who work in it can continue to thrive.

“A future-focused sector vision must also ensure that workers are protected in the face of future shocks and challenges. Creative freelancers were hit particularly hard by the pandemic, with many ineligible for government support schemes. The Government must put its money where its mouth is, listen to workers’ concerns and work with unions and industry to implement better protections for freelancers to ensure the sector is an equal, safe and rewarding place to build and sustain a career.

“Equally, the Government must commit to driving real progress in tackling bullying, harassment and racism in the sector. We welcome progress via the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority and call on the Government to meaningfully engage with workers and unions on these and other issues.

“Ultimately, if the Government wants to back the creative industries and better support the workforce it must demonstrate a better understanding of the delicate nature of the sector’s ecosystem and avoid knee jerk, politically motivated decisions. We have a thriving creative sector here in the UK we can rightly be proud of, and its future success requires clear strategy and sustained follow through, all in collaboration with industry stakeholders.”