Philippa Childs · 18 December 2025
In this article, Philippa Childs, the Head of Bectu, reflects on the key events and challenges of 2025 for freelance workers in the creative industries.
Resilience in the Wake of the Pandemic
As we look back five years post-pandemic, many freelancers still grapple with instability. By the end of 2020, countless individuals were excluded from government assistance, pushing them to the brink. Particularly in theatre and live events, the journey back to normalcy seemed an eternal wait. While we have made progress, many members of our community still find themselves on shaky ground.
Advocating for Freelance Representation
This ongoing uncertainty led us to advocate for the establishment of a Freelance Champion within the government. This key role aims to amplify the voices of freelancers and ensure their needs are integrated into policy development. Mid-year, we received encouraging news from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport about the role’s creation, and we urge for timely appointments in the upcoming year to secure freelancers’ interests.
Bectu’s Big Survey: A Deep Dive into Industry Challenges
This year, we launched Bectu’s Big Survey, gathering over 5,500 responses from behind-the-scenes creative professionals. The findings underscored persistent issues such as job insecurity, workload imbalance, and inadequate protections for freelancers. We presented these insights to Parliament in discussions aimed at advocating for improved pay and working conditions within our sector.
Combatting Excessive Working Hours
One of the most alarming challenges remains the excessively long hours often faced by freelancers in film and TV. Instances of “broken turnaround” continue, where workers finish late and commence early, receiving insufficient rest. These practices are not only unlawful but also unsafe. This year, Bectu escalated discussions with the Health & Safety Executive and broadened dialogue with Pact and employers to seek sector-wide solutions.
Broadcasting and Industry Adaptations
The broadcasting sector is currently experiencing significant transformations. The Labour government has aligned more closely with the BBC, which continues to face political and financial challenges. Bectu remains steadfast in advocating for the BBC’s independence and responding proactively to the ongoing Charter Renewal process. Similarly, ITV is navigating restructuring and redundancy consultations amidst market uncertainty.
Modernizing Theatre and Arts Conditions
Brexit introduced notable hurdles for touring theatre productions, prompting ongoing discussions with the government about touring visas. Recognizing the need for an updated agreement with UK Theatre, we have initiated workshops and formal negotiations to enhance working conditions for artists. Our commitment to improving the industry at all levels remains unwavering.
Striving for Equality in the Creative Sector
Our equality initiatives are a focal point for Bectu, evidenced by ongoing efforts to eliminate discriminatory practices in the industry. Collaborative actions with the Hair, Makeup and Prosthetics branch and the Black Members’ Committee aim to address gaps in training and representation. To further strengthen our sector, we are advocating for the establishment of the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA), urging industry stakeholders to commit to sustainable funding.
Looking Towards a Brighter Future
While the journey has been challenging, the introduction of the Employment Rights Bill indicates potential for positive change. By bolstering workers’ rights and easing union organization, we may finally see substantial, measurable improvements in workers’ conditions. As we approach the New Year, I extend my heartfelt wishes for a joyful holiday season for all members of our community, thanking you for your invaluable contributions to our shared industries.
This structured article utilizes appropriate headings, keywords related to the creative industries, freelancers, and advocacy. It also maintains an engaging tone, ensuring it’s both informative and optimized for SEO.
Reflecting on 2025: Progress and Challenges for Freelancers in the Creative Industries
By Philippa Childs · 18 December 2025
The Ongoing Struggle for Stability
As we enter the latter part of 2025, the turbulence caused by the pandemic is still palpable in the creative sectors. Freelancers across theatre and live events continue to face significant challenges in their pursuit of stability. Many individuals who were excluded from government support schemes at the end of 2020 still feel financially precarious, despite the progress we’ve made. It is clear that our collective journey towards recovery is ongoing.
Establishing a Freelance Champion
To address the unique needs of freelancers, a critical initiative was launched this year: the establishment of a Freelance Champion within the government. This role is intended to advocate for the interests of freelancers and ensure their inclusion in policy discussions. We are optimistic that swift action will take place early next year, reinforcing the recognition of freelancers in legislative decisions affecting our communities.
Bectu’s Big Survey Reveals Industry Insights
This year, we conducted Bectu’s Big Survey, gathering insights from over 5,500 creative professionals working behind the scenes. The results highlighted prevalent issues such as job insecurity, long working hours, and inadequate protections for freelancers. Armed with this vital data, we took the findings to a parliamentary roundtable, aiming to spark meaningful conversations around improving rights, pay, and working conditions in the industry.
Addressing Long Working Hours
Long hours remain a crucial issue for many in the film and television sectors. Freelancers frequently experience “broken turnaround,” which jeopardizes their well-being. Our commitment this year involved escalating this matter to the national regulator, urging for systemic changes. We have also engaged in significant discussions with Pact to negotiate better working conditions and agreements that aim to define clearer standards across the industry.
Modernizing Conditions in Broadcasting and Theatre
The broadcasting landscape is evolving, particularly under the current government’s policies. Bectu continues to advocate for the BBC’s independence amidst external pressures, and we emphasize the need for reforms to its governance structure. In theatre, Brexit complications have hindered touring productions. We are pushing for resolutions on touring visas to allow for smoother operations and have initiated essential negotiations with UK Theatre to modernize agreements affecting our members.
Fostering Equality and Inclusivity
Promoting equal opportunities remains at the forefront of our initiatives. Collaborative efforts with the Hair, Makeup and Prosthetics branch, and the Black Members’ Committee aim to counter discriminatory practices affecting minority performers. We also support the establishment of the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA) and encourage industry actors to contribute towards its funding for better workplace standards.
A Future of Cautious Optimism
Looking ahead, we see glimmers of hope with the upcoming Employment Rights Bill, which promises stronger protections and benefits for workers. These legislative changes aim to foster a more equitable environment for all freelancers in the creative industries. We remain dedicated to advocating for our members and are hopeful for tangible, positive changes in the coming year.
