Calls have grown for the creation of independent authority to tackle bullying and harassment within the UK’s entertainment sector, an industry with a workforce largely comprised of freelancers. Actors Keira Knightley and Naomie Harris are among the high-profile names to call for the establishment of an Independent Standards Authority (ISA) in the sector.
The creation of a UK ISA was first called for by UK Time’s Up, which has developed a framework to protect self-employed, freelance and short-term contract workers in the entertainment industry, alongside law firm Fieldfisher. UK Time’s Up and Creative UK are now working together to discuss the framework with various media stakeholders, including representatives from TV, film, theatre and music.
Knightley and Harris, who have both previously spoken about their experiences of assault within the entertainment industry, said that the creation of an ISA would be an “important step” in helping to achieve safe, respectful workplaces. Other high-profile supporters of the project include BFI Director of Culture and Inclusion Jennifer Smith, Bectu Head Philippa Childs, Bafta Chair Krishnendu Mujamdar and Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries.
UK Time’s Up Head Heather Rabbatts said: “This is a historic moment for the film and television industry to create a new body which will provide a just process for complainants and for those accused, to drive accountability and integrity.”
“The ISA is a crucial development in the fight to eradicate unacceptable behaviour and support safe, respectful and dignified working conditions for all. We are all aware that whilst there are helplines and advice, which are, of course, crucially important, fear and suspicion remain and, in a sector dominated by freelancers with little or zero employment protection, and access to work being based on formal and informal networks, many continue to suffer in silence.”
