The British Film Institute has today launched WorkWise For Screen, a new multi-form guide developed to improve the health and wellbeing landscape of practitioners working in the industry.
WorkWise For Screen, described as a “£1.5m pilot programme”, was created by consultancy firm Counterculture and led by creative industries lawyer Keith Arrowsmith.
The program will be available as a free-to-access online portal, podcast series, and peer-to-peer network for small and medium-sized businesses in the film industry and heads of production, animation, VFX, games, distribution, and exhibitions. Masu. .
BFI said the program will help users deal with impending changes to UK employment law under the new Employment Rights Bill, and will provide legal contract and policy templates, as well as e-learning modules. Our podcast series, live talks and events, regular newsletter, and quarterly magazine also cover the most pressing topics.
Commenting on today’s launch, BFI Skills and Workforce Development Director Sarah Whybrew said the program was a way for the BFI to protect the UK’s “world-class” workforce and creative sector. .
“Wide reports of people struggling with working conditions, mental health and work-life balance require action, and we want to help the industry build fairer, safer and more inclusive workplaces. “We’re working hard,” Whybrew said.
“Created by Counterculture and expertly led by Keith Arrowsmith, who brings a wealth of legal and governance expertise, WorkWise for Screen draws on industry input to provide industry-specific practical resources, guidance and training. It will also help the industry address and comply with the government’s upcoming Employment Rights Bill, particularly the changes related to the use of freelancers, and start a meaningful conversation about eradicating unpaid work. can.”
The program is delivered by a team of experts from institutions such as the Employment Institute, ScreenSkills and Edinburgh Napier University, as well as lawyers from across the UK.
Welcoming the announcement, Sixteen Films producer Rebecca O’Brien said: No one disputes the concept of fair labor practices. Everyone wants that for themselves and their employees. The reality of film production, especially independent film production, is so high-pressure that it requires support for contract and HR policies, especially in light of new legislation. We welcome resources that aim to not only help you respond to legislative changes, but also have a positive impact on health and wellbeing. We’re encouraged by this new pilot, which will provide sector-wide support in this area, as filmmaking is truly a collaborative effort and requires employees to be at their best to produce the best possible work. Masu. ”