Overcoming Class Disparity: Addressing Inequality in the UK's Film and TV Sectors
In a recent report by the Creative Industries Policy and Evidence Centre (PEC), the underrepresentation of diverse talent in the UK's Screen Industries has been highlighted. The report, supported by ScreenSkills and the British Film Institute (BFI), focuses on the structural barriers and socio-economic inequalities affecting access and employment in the sector.
The research reveals that only about 26% of the creative workforce comes from lower socio-economic backgrounds, compared to 38% in all industries. This indicates a significant underrepresentation of people from working-class backgrounds in the UK Screen.
One of the key challenges identified is funding barriers for screen storytellers from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. Initiatives like the Creative Enterprise programme, partly funded by the BFI, aim to level the playing field by addressing funding and growth barriers and enhancing socio-economic diversity, including gender equity in the screen industries.
The report also emphasises the need for attracting and advancing diverse talent. This includes stronger targeting of careers activities towards social mobility 'coldspots', widening access to higher education, and strengthening technical education pathways into the industry.
The efforts are not limited to London, where much of the sector’s activity and wealth is concentrated. Instead, they focus on regional equity and inclusion to promote equality, diversity, and inclusive growth of creative clusters across the UK.
Heather Carey, Director of Work Advance, and Professor Dave O'Brien, Professor of Cultural and Creative Industries at The University of Manchester, are among the authors of the report. Dr Olivia Gable, Policy Analyst at the Work Foundation, also contributed to the research.
The Screen Industries, which contribute over £20bn in GVA and employ over 200,000 people in the UK, are a key area of competitive advantage for the country in a post-Brexit era. However, the sector faces challenges, particularly regarding diversity. The report calls for an industry-wide approach to measurement and targets for socio-economic diversity to effect real change.
Worldwide exports of creative goods exceeded 500 billion USD in 2015, with a 150% increase since 2000. The UK's departure from the EU has changed the way British firms trade and work with European countries, making it even more crucial to ensure the sector is inclusive and representative of the wider population.
The report details the migrant and skills needs of creative businesses in the UK, based on a survey commissioned by the Creative Industries Council. It also highlights the need to invest in interventions that support progression to bring forward diverse future leaders.
In conclusion, the PEC's research underscores the importance of addressing socio-economic underrepresentation in the UK's Screen Industries. With a long-term commitment, real change can be effected to create a more inclusive and diverse sector that truly reflects the society it serves.
- The Creative Industries Policy and Evidence Centre (PEC) report has underscored the underrepresentation of diverse talent in the UK's Screen Industries.
- The report, supported by ScreenSkills and the British Film Institute (BFI), focuses on structural barriers and socio-economic inequalities affecting access and employment in the sector.
- The research reveals that only about 26% of the creative workforce comes from lower socio-economic backgrounds, a significant underrepresentation compared to all industries.
- Initiatives like the Creative Enterprise programme, partly funded by the BFI, aim to level the playing field by addressing funding and growth barriers and enhancing socio-economic diversity.
- The report emphasizes the need for attracting and advancing diverse talent, including stronger targeting of careers activities towards social mobility 'coldspots' and strengthening technical education pathways into the industry.
- Efforts to promote equality, diversity, and inclusive growth of creative clusters across the UK are not limited to London, but extend to regional areas as well.
- The Screen Industries, which contribute over £20bn in GVA and employ over 200,000 people in the UK, are a key area of competitive advantage for the country. However, the sector faces challenges, particularly regarding diversity.
- The report calls for an industry-wide approach to measurement and targets for socio-economic diversity, as well as investments in interventions that support progression to bring forward diverse future leaders.
