HeartUnions Blog: Why Bectu is the union for freelancers in film and TV
At Bectu, we work to progress your career, give you exclusive networking opportunities and campaign on societal issues that affect you. We also have a benefits package that can save you money on your energy bills and gives you exclusive access to financial and legal services.
For HeartUnions week, we spoke to Bectu members Poli Kyriacou, Arlene de Cruz and Maya Jagger, who share why they love being part of Bectu and how it has helped them in their careers in film and TV.
Poli, a freelance assistant costume designer, has been a Bectu member since 2009 and is the Branch Secretary for the Costume and Wardrobe Branch.
Arlene is a freelance chaperone, tutor agent and Bectu rep. After joining Bectu, she helped form the Chaperones Branch.
Maya is a young worker in the industry. She joined Bectu in 2021 and is a freelancing location marshal and Young Members’ rep for the Locations branch.
Arlene de Cruz
Why did you join Bectu?
Polly: Coming from a working-class background and upbringing, I was raised to believe that it was important to be part of a trade union for support at work.
Arlene: I wanted to join a group that could support change for the work chaperones do. A colleague introduced me to Bectu so I joined. Since then, I have been working on creating a branch for chaperones.
Maya: I’ve always wanted to be part of a real union. I finally decided to join after witnessing a great resignation while I was a trainee.
What is the best thing about being a Bectu member?
Poli: Meeting and engaging with other members and being part of a team that is trying to help make the film and tv industry a better place to work.
Arlene: The people – hands down! I love the innovation, the networking, the passion and the support. I feel like I am part of a family. I am proud to be a part of Bectu.
Maya: I’m very excited about the Marshal Mixer! It’s a Bectu networking event which is aimed at young and new entrants in the Locations Department.
Maya Jagger
What would you say to a colleague considering joining a union?
Poli: There is strength in numbers! Not only will you have people to back you at work but the more people that are in the union the more changes it can make. Also, it is worth it for the PLI (Public Liability Insurance) alone.
Arlene: Come and join in – have a voice, we would love to get to know you and hear your story. We would like to learn about you and your ideas to keep us thinking outside of the box. The union offers training and learning which is vital in the film and TV industry. So if you want to develop your craft, Bectu is the place to do that.
Maya: It’s made me feel more secure at work. It’s also ridiculously cheap to join, really good value, especially if you’re a young person like me. There are exciting workshops and people will listen when it comes to your rights at work and mental health. You can make friends with colleagues outside of work. We all go down to the pub afterwards, there’s no pressure to drink and it’s a good time!
Read more from our members and staff about why it’s a great idea to join a union.
