BAFTA

An independent British charity that supports, develops and promotes the art forms of the moving image. Members must have 5 years of experience in the industry and fulfil other criteria, and can vote in the annual Film, Television, Television Craft, Games and Children's Awards.

This can be a fun membership for access to screenings, the Piccadilly clubhouse and networking, particularly if you are a Production Designer and want to meet writers and directors, however it is pricey and most crew in the Art Dept and Props aren't members. 

Bectu

The media and entertainment union for freelancers working in film and TV. There's an Art Department branch made up of crew from Art, Set Decoration, Graphics and Drapes, and a Props Branch for Props and Prop Modelling. The committees work on campaigns in support of the department's interests.

There are some genuine benefits to being a member of Bectu as it can be an insurance for if something goes wrong. There is also value in supporting the rate cards and negotiations that the branches contribute to as these effect your working terms and conditions.  See our full Bectu and IATSE article for more.

British Film Commission

The national agency with a remit to maximise and support the production of international feature film and television in the UK. Produced the government-approved set guidelines for working conditions during Covid-19, "The Film & TV Production Code of Practice."

British Film Designers Guild

A guild for members of the Art Department that organises networking events and training. They have about 650 members and although the membership is on the pricier side, it can be a good way to network. 

British Film Institute

The UK's lead organisation and charity for film, television and the moving image. Anyone can join and get access to screenings and events. 

Health and Safety Executive (HSE)

The UK's health and safety regulator, which publishes specific guidance for the entertainment industry covering theatre, TV and film production. Productions will follow their regulations on health and safety on set and in the studios. 

Pact

The industry body representing UK independent television, film, digital, children's and animation media companies. It's the body Bectu negotiates with on the industry-wide agreements that set out crew terms and conditions.

Production Guild of Great Britain (PGGB)

A membership body mainly for production management, accounts and coordination roles, offering training courses, events and support for its members. 

ScreenSkills

The industry-led skills body for the screen industries, offering bursaries, funded training and career resources for people working in film, TV, VFX, animation and games.

The Film and TV Charity

Supports the mental health and financial wellbeing of people working behind the scenes in film, TV and cinema, including a free, confidential support line available 24 hours a day.

The Graphics Union

A directory of graphic designers working in the UK film and TV industry. If you're looking for a graphic designer, you can also post a job advert on the site.

UK Screen Alliance

The trade body representing VFX, animation and post-production companies in the UK, campaigning on their behalf and supporting the wider industry.

Pay, contracts & rights

Pay, contracts & rights

Pay, contracts & rights

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