From Hollywood strikes to LA wildfires: How brokers can support UK film and TV clients through these ongoing challenges
The UK’s film and TV industry is still reeling from a series of challenges that have emerged over recent years.
From the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic to the Hollywood strikes of 2023, the sector has faced significant turbulence. Now, the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have added to the challenges, with productions suspended, studios closed, and high-profile events cancelled.
Recent research by Bectu, the media and entertainment trade union, shows that over half of the UK’s film and TV workforce remains out of work – a stark indicator of the lasting ripple effects from these crises.
Bectu surveyed over 2,300 film and TV workers and uncovered the following:
- 52% of UK film sector workers are out of work
- 51% of TV drama workers remain unemployed
- 57% of unscripted TV workers are still out of wor
- 53% of workers in commercials report being unemployed.
Although these figures show a slight improvement from February 2024, when 68% of workers were unemployed, it’s clear the industry is experiencing a slow recovery.
The wildfires’ role in the continuing crisis
The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have compounded the difficulties faced by the global media and entertainment industry. Productions have been suspended, studios have temporarily closed their doors and many high-profile events have been cancelled. Even celebrities have been displaced, highlighting the widespread disruption caused by this natural disaster.
For UK film and TV businesses, these events will inevitably have ripple effects. The suspension of productions in the US means fewer opportunities for UK-based workers and service providers reliant on Hollywood-funded projects. This ongoing disruption makes it vital for businesses to remain resilient and supported during these uncertain times.
The challenges faced by the industry could lead to:
- Financial instability due to halted productions and reduced opportunities
- Increased redundancy risks, with employers forced to make tough decisions about staffing
- Legal and reputational risks if businesses are unable to meet contractual obligations
- A strain on cash flow, as delayed or cancelled projects affect revenue streams
How brokers can support their Media and Entertainment clients
For businesses in the media and entertainment sector, resilience depends on having the right support and protection in place. Here’s how insurance brokers can help:
Offer tailored advice and insurance solutions
Ensure clients have the right cover in place, such as Directors’ and Officers’ (D&O) insurance, including Employment Practices Liability (EPL) cover. This can protect businesses from claims arising from redundancies or other employment-related disputes.
Engage clients early
Encourage businesses to consult their brokers before making cuts or restructuring their workforce. Proactive advice can help mitigate risks and identify appropriate insurance protections.
Highlight business continuity planning
Ensure clients understand the importance of robust insurance policies, such as production insurance and event cancellation insurance, to safeguard against unforeseen disruptions like wildfires or strikes.
Provide expert claims support
Be ready to guide clients through claims processes, whether for business interruption, liability, or other issues related to ongoing challenges in the industry.
The film and TV industry is navigating a tough road to recovery, and the added challenges of natural disasters like the LA wildfires are making this journey even harder. For UK businesses and workers reliant on this sector, the need for robust advice and tailored protection has never been greater.
At Yutree, we are committed to helping our media and entertainment clients weather these storms. With the right support, the industry can rebuild stronger and continue to create the compelling stories that captivate audiences worldwide.
Learn more about our BIBA-approved ‘Media and Entertainment by Yutree’ product >>>.