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The UK boasts a world-class film and high-endÌýTV (HETV) sector,Ìýallowing freelance actors and performersÌýthe opportunityÌýtoÌýparticipate in some of the globe’s most thrilling productions. However, navigating the industry and working as a freelancer can be challenging. To support you on your journey, we have compiled the ultimate toolkit ofÌýorganisations and resourcesÌýfor UK performers, including supporting artists.

Looking for help navigating your tax obligations? See our ultimate tax guide for self-employed workers in the UK film and TV industry.

Unions

The UK film and TV industry is supported by several unions that protect the rights and interests of performers.

• : As the national union for actors and performers in the UK, Equity represents over 50,000 members. ItÌýprovides union representation, legal advice, pension support and public liability insurance. Equity actively campaigns on behalf of its membersÌýon issues thatÌýaffectÌýperformers, including AI regulation, fairÌýpay and improved working conditions.
• If you are a supporting artist working in London,ÌýtheÌýFAA can offer valuable support. This branch of BECTU ensures fair pay and safe working conditions and provides various legal,Ìýpractical and financial resources to its members.
• :ÌýPACT is the UK’s trade body for independent production and distribution companies. WhileÌýit does notÌýrepresent artists, PACT negotiates with the FAA and Equity on agreements and rates for supporting artists.ÌýItÌýadvocates for and supports production companies, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the industry.

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• ÌýAn invaluableÌýcharity that provides critical financial support and welfare benefits to individuals working in film,ÌýTV and cinema. In addition to a confidential helpline, financial grants and employment advice,Ìýthe Film and TVÌýCharity offersÌýresourcesÌýsuch asÌýa benefits calculator to help youÌýidentify support you might be eligible for. If you are struggling with mental health issues, the FilmÌýand TV Charity Support Line is available 24/7, 365 days a year, offering free, confidential support via phone or web chat. They can refer callers to specialist legal and financial advice and offer six free, one-to-one structuredÌýcounselling sessions.
• ÌýProvides excellent resources to educate various freelancers and film and TV professionalsÌýon the essentials of working on set. Their comprehensiveÌý covers topics such as UK tax law and how to enhance your screen sector portfolio.ÌýTheyÌýalsoÌýoffer training and development opportunities through a multitude of free learning courses, including the ‘ScreenSkills Training Passport,’ ‘Software Upskilling for Screen Professionals’ and ‘Introduction to Diversity & Inclusion on Screen.’
• : a UK not-for-profitÌýorganisation that supports self-employed individuals.ÌýIPSE provides valuable resources, protection and a welcoming community while advocating forÌýtheÌýfair treatment and recognition of self-employment as a respected career choice.
• WFTV is dedicated to uplifting and celebrating women in the UK film and TV industry. They host regular networking events, workshops, and an annual mentoring scheme designed to help mid-career women build connections and advance their careers within the screen sector.

StayingÌýinformedÌýandÌýinspired

• Stay updated on industry happeningsÌýwith this UK podcast, hosted by Richard Osman and Guardian columnist Marina Hyde. The show explores contemporary entertainment stories across filmÌýandÌýTV,Ìýpublishing and cultural politics. Each week, two episodes are released: a main episode discussing current events and a Q&A episode addressing listener questionsÌý(be sure toÌýcheck out theirÌýprevious episodeÌýonÌýlife asÌýaÌýsupporting artist!).
• :ÌýThis monthly podcast serves as your backstage pass to the global screen industry. Hosted by Matt Mueller, editor of ScreenÌýInternational, and Fionnuala Halligan, chief film critic, each episode keeps you informed about creative and business trends shaping the screen world. With special guest appearances from filmmakers, industry experts and critics,Ìýyou’ll gain in-depth insight into the filmmaking process.
• ÌýBeyondÌýThe Frame is aÌý7-part podcast from Film London. Hosted by Adrian Wootton OBE, the series shines a light on the amazing creative talents working behind the scenes in the screen industries. Each episode features in-depth and engaging conversations with directors, producers, costume designers and more, giving listeners aÌýsneakÌýpeek into the world of film,ÌýTV and games.

Interested in becoming a supporting artist on UK film and TV productions?ÌýFind out more here!