Theatre workers can’t carry the cost of stopping coronavirus

Head of Bectu Philippa Childs said in response to government advice to avoid theatres, pubs and travel: “We are already in discussions with employers about how best to handle this fast moving situation. The cost of protecting the public from the spread of coronavirus can’t be carried by theatre workers, many of whom are on zero hours contracts.

“The government needs to be clearer in its guidance and its language so that theatre companies can claim insurance to ensure that staff are not left without pay for weeks on end. It is failing to provide the clarity it needs to and this must be addressed immediately.

“Bectu will continue to push hard for better protection for freelancers and vulnerable workers including zero hours workers to try to reach an agreement with employers as quickly as possible.”