Bfi introduces major initiative to enhance U.K. screen industry standards

The British Film Institute (BFI) has launched an exciting new⁤ pilot program worth £1.5 million ($1.9 million), aimed at transforming workplace conditions‌ and practices across the U.K. screen sector.

A new chapter⁣ for workplace standards

Dubbed WorkWise for Screen, this cutting-edge⁣ initiative is set to revolutionize the industry by ‍providing crucial resources and guidance⁢ to foster equity, inclusion, and respect within the workplace. This forward-thinking program seeks to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and department heads in sectors such as ⁤production, animation, VFX, gaming, distribution, and exhibition.

An arsenal of supportive tools

At ​the core of WorkWise‍ for Screen is a rich array of resources ‍designed to support professionalism and ethical practices. The ‍initiative features:

• A free online portal with comprehensive tools.
• An engaging podcast series discussing pressing industry‍ issues.
• A ‌robust peer-to-peer network facilitating community ⁢support and knowledge-sharing.

These tools ​will‌ be invaluable for SMEs looking to navigate the complexities of changing employment laws and enhance their ‌business practices.

Steering through legislative landscapes

Crafted in close ⁤collaboration with industry experts, this program will be delivered by Counterculture under the expert guidance of a renowned lawyer in the creative industries. It aims to help industry leaders adapt to⁢ new U.K. employment legislation, providing essential legal contracting and policy templates, e-learning ⁤modules, and relevant‍ advice.

Addressing pressing industry needs

WorkWise for Screen is a direct response ‍to critical findings from the BFI ​Skills Review and‌ various research endeavors, such as the notable Film and TV Charity’s Looking Glass Surveys. Core topics covered by the‌ initiative include:

• People management
• Inclusive leadership
• Wellbeing approaches
• Contracting ⁢practices
• Inclusive recruitment

The initiative will continually evolve to meet the industry’s changing ⁢needs, guided by an industry advisory board, an HR technical group, and a producers group.

The voices behind the initiative

Sara‌ Whybrew, a key figure in skills ‍and ‍workforce development, emphasizes ⁢that‍ the U.K.’s world-class screen content⁤ is largely attributed to its talented workforce. However, there’s a growing ⁤necessity to address working conditions, mental health, and work-life balance.

“We⁣ are ‍committed ‍to supporting the ⁣industry in‍ creating fairer, safer, and⁣ more inclusive⁣ workplaces,” explains Whybrew, ⁤emphasizing the ⁣BFI’s dedication to fostering a healthier work environment.

Keith Arrowsmith, the architect behind the WorkWise for ‌Screen initiative, adds: ⁢“Our ​program ⁣is deeply rooted in current legislation, providing the necessary resources ⁣to keep the industry on ⁣solid ground.”

Industry-wide collaboration

The initiative has garnered widespread support and involvement from an impressive range of organizations and individuals, ensuring diverse perspectives and⁣ comprehensive coverage. Key contributors include:

• BAFTA
• Bectu
• British Board of Film Classification
• Creative Wales
• Film⁣ London
• Institute⁢ of Cultural and Creative‌ Industries
• Manchester Animation Festival
• Northern Ireland Screen
• Production Guild
• Screen Alliance North
• Talent Trust

Freelancers from various roles within the industry have also played a pivotal role, highlighting the collaborative spirit of this​ groundbreaking project.

Looking forward

As WorkWise for Screen takes‌ its first steps, the⁣ industry eagerly anticipates the ⁢positive‌ changes and enhancements this⁤ initiative ‌promises. With programs tailored to address critical skills and workplace issues, the BFI strives to elevate the U.K. screen sector to new heights ⁤of excellence.

This milestone initiative‌ isn’t just‍ about making ‍improvements—it’s about setting a new ​standard⁣ for workplace practices that can inspire and lead on a global scale. Follow us for more updates on exciting developments in the world of screen arts ‌and stay tuned for stories that ​spotlight industry ⁤innovations and advancements.

Share this story with your network and join the⁣ conversation on redefining what’s possible⁢ in the dynamic and‌ creative world of‌ screen production.