Independent filmmakers, producers, writers, directors and show creators are facing one of the most difficult periods in recent memory.
Last year, more than 200 production companies signed an open letter calling for greater support from institutions within the UK film and TV sector. Four out of 10 freelancers in the film & TV industry are out of work (Bectu, Big Survey 2025), 74% of film and TV workers are already considering leaving the industry (Film & TV Charity, Money Matters 2026) This reflects a wider crisis: many freelancers are out of work, many screen workers are considering leaving the industry, and independent films are struggling to reach audiences and generate sustainable revenues.
We believe the time has come to ask a bigger question: what kind of support structure does the UK screen community actually need?
We are launching the first People’s Screen Institute Survey to gather views from people working across film, TV and the wider screen sector. The aim is to identify the biggest institutional gaps, understand what support is missing, and explore whether there is demand for a new member-led, co-operative-style organisation built around transparency, creator ownership, fair access, rights, distribution, career development and practical support.
Big Picture Film Club is supporting this early research as part of its wider work championing independent film, screen culture and underrepresented voices in the UK industry.
The survey takes around 7 – 11 minutes to complete. Responses will be analysed anonymously unless you choose to join the founding network.
We are keen to build bridges, share findings with relevant organisations, and work collaboratively on practical solutions.
You can take the survey by clicking the link above to open the survey in a new window or by using the form below.
