The Equality and Diversity Work Group offers a safe space that advocates for equality and opportunity for all of our members regardless of age, cultural background, class, socio-economic status, disability, ethnicity, religion, caring responsibilities, gender or sexual orientation. We view having a diverse membership as a highly important part of our industry. We are also aware that the industry has quite a lot of catching up to do in this regard. It is from this particular notion that we want to make sure there are more opportunities available for everyone, and to support under-represented members whilst eradicating bias and discrimination. 

The Equality and Diversity Work Group  is made up of volunteers from the BECTU Art Department branch Committee, and includes members from art, graphics & set dec departments, working across film, TV & commercials. (This includes: art directors, assistant art directors & draughtspersons; graphic designers; production buyers, assistant buyers & petty cash buyers; set decorators & set dec assistants.)

We aim to increase awareness, campaign for improved policies and better practices, and share accessible and inclusive resources that respect the needs of each art department member, not leaving anyone behind.

We are committed to fighting for equality and inclusion not only in the Art Department but across the industry. We recognize that change can sometimes be slow, but we are pushing for these changes to take effect in our working lifetime. The Equality and Diversity Work Group are currently engaged in campaigns, the key one at present being the “New Deal”, and we actively share resources and compile surveys to gather data and your thoughts to identify how the industry needs to change.

We are fighting for:

• Gender pay equality

• Transparent and accountable hiring practices

• Diversity monitoring and BAME inclusion

• HR for Freelancers

• ‘Return to work’ provision

• Protection from discrimination

• Better entry-level pay

• Educational outreach

• Continuing Professional Development programmes

• Flexible working

• Maternity pay & parental leave

• Crêche and childcare facilities

• Supporting pregnant workers

• Anti-harassment, anti-discrimination and anti-bullying training

• Reporting sexual harassment, bullying and discrimination 

These are topics we are discussing within our Work Group. Your voice and contribution are always welcome. We are keen to hear your thoughts, whether you are a member or not, so we are able to best represent your interests in discussions, campaigns and initiatives. 

This Committee year, we will be looking into partnering with organisations, groups and schemes that are committed to an inclusive industry. We will create campaigns to raise awareness and increase accountability, and we will compile and share supportive resources.

EQUALITY

Equality is about ensuring that every individual has an equal opportunity to make the most of their lives and talents. It is also the belief that no one should have poorer life chances because of the way they were born, where they come from, what they believe, or whether they have a disability.

DIVERSITY 

Diversity in the work place, focuses on the makeup of your workforce — demographics such as gender, race/ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, veteran status, just to name a few. 

INCLUSION

Inclusion is a measure of culture that enables diversity to thrive.