A significant development for the UK creative sector has emerged with the launch of new mental health principles, designed to enhance the wellbeing of professionals in film and television. This initiative, spearheaded by the Film and TV Charity in collaboration with over 45 industry organisations, comes in response to alarming findings that reveal a substantial number of industry workers are grappling with poor mental health.
A Call to Action Following Troubling Statistics
The Film and TV Charity’s recent survey, known as the Looking Glass, has unveiled a distressing picture of mental health in the UK film and TV industry. The survey indicated that approximately 35% of respondents rated their mental health as either “poor” or “very poor.” Alarmingly, nearly one in three participants reported having experienced suicidal thoughts within the past year. Additionally, 63% acknowledged that their work negatively impacted their mental health, while 64% had contemplated leaving the industry due to these concerns.
In light of these findings, the newly introduced principles serve as a robust framework aimed at fostering mental health support within production environments. The principles advocate for the cultivation of a supportive culture, the promotion of inclusive relationships among teams, and the management of both workload and the emotional toll of challenging subject matter.
Key Principles for Enhancing Mental Wellbeing
Marcus Ryder, the chief executive of the Film and TV Charity, emphasised the importance of this initiative, describing it as “the biggest industry initiative to address mental health in film and television in a generation.” He noted that the mental health outcomes for individuals in this sector are consistently poorer than national averages.
The principles urge production companies to incorporate mental health considerations into their planning processes, similar to how they approach physical safety. This includes identifying potential stressors at the outset of a project, preparing for emotionally taxing content, and establishing clear reporting mechanisms for bullying or inappropriate behaviour.
While these principles are not legally binding, they align with existing legal obligations and best practices within the industry. Their implementation may vary, with some organisations choosing to adopt them informally, while others may integrate them into formal commissioning frameworks.
Bridging the Gap in Mental Health Support
The need for a unified approach to mental health in the creative sector has been long overdue. Previous frameworks that address workplace mental health tend to be generic and may not adequately cater to the unique demands of the film and television environment, which is often characterised by freelance work, high pressure, and rapid turnaround times.
Sara Putt, chair of BAFTA and the Film and TV Charity, highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by industry professionals, particularly those in freelance roles. Many individuals have reported feeling overwhelmed by job instability, limited access to training, and the intense pressures of production environments. These factors not only contribute to a talent drain but also significantly affect the mental wellbeing of the workforce.
Kate Phillips, chief content officer at the BBC, echoed the sentiments of her colleagues, indicating that this initiative represents a potential turning point for the industry’s commitment to the welfare of its production community. She urged both in-house teams and third-party suppliers to prioritise these principles to foster a healthier and more sustainable industry.
Why it Matters
The introduction of these mental health principles marks a pivotal moment for the UK film and television industry, striving to address an urgent need for systemic change. By recognising the critical role that mental health plays in the workplace, the industry can move towards creating a more supportive and sustainable environment for all professionals. This initiative not only aims to improve individual wellbeing but also seeks to enhance overall productivity and creativity within the sector, ensuring that the UK remains a leader in the global creative landscape.
