Coping with redundancy in the UK film and TV industry: Practical guidance and support

The slowdown across film, TV and commercial production and commissioning in the UK means that an unprecedented number of film and TV professionals are already out of work. On top of that, the BBC has flagged that 500 jobs are to go, Channel 4 announced plans to cut 200 jobs earlier in the year, and ITV recently publicised 170 voluntary redundancies. There are also layoffs at Prime Video and Disney and many other companies across our industry. And according to the BFI, UK spending on film productions in the first quarter of 2024 was 45% lower than reported in the first three months of 2023.

Understanding redundancy in the film and TV industry

The current wave of redundancies in the UK film and TV industry has left many professionals facing uncertainty. Staying resilient when there when are so many unknowable unknowns is hard. Whether you’ve lost your job or are concerned about the possibility, it’s essential to understand what redundancy means and how to navigate this transition effectively. 

In this blog, you’ll find some practical guidance and helpful tips for anyone who is feeling the impacts of an industry in crisis – because you shouldn’t have to suffer alone. 

Coping with redundancy

Review your finances

• Regaining a sense of control when decisions have been made for you is tough, but it might help to start reviewing your finances and find out about the practical aspects of what redundancy means for you. 
• One of the first steps you can take is to check our financial support to find out your eligibility for statutory benefits. You can also use our Budget Planner tool from MoneyHelper to help you understand your financial situation. 

Seek financial and legal guidance

• Our free and confidential 24-hour Support Line can also offer you debt guidance and refer you for free legal guidance.

Manage the emotional impact

• If you are struggling with the emotional impact of being out of work or losing your job, or if you’ve been affected by others being made redundant at your workplace, you can also contact our confidential Support Line for in the moment support, or for a referral to six sessions of structured counselling.

Helpful tips and resources 

It can sometimes help to reframe job loss as a grieving process. Taking some time to process the tides of shock, anger and fear of the future is important. 

Redundancy is bound to feel like an identity hit – particularly in the competitive world of TV and film. Lots of people are feeling anger and sadness at having given so much passion and commitment to their work, only to end up feeling disposable in return. Try not to internalise the process – it’s a business decision and not a judgement on your worth. 

Reflect on your strengths 

• It may help to review your strengths and weaknesses, threats and opportunities, to start considering where a next career move might take you.

• Reach out to people you know and have conversations about possibilities to help you re-build your confidence.
  

Community support: You’re not alone

Losing a job can be isolating, but there are communities and networks that can offer support:

• The TV Mindset is a peer network that provides professional and peer support for freelancers, particularly with mental health. 
• Switch Up (run by Telly Mums) is accessible to all mid-senior level freelancers to connect, share advice, and explore job opportunities.

We’ve also compiled a list of industry opportunities and events you can apply for, social and networking events to attend.

Navigating redundancy is challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Use the resources and support available to you, and remember, we’re here to help.