New research from diversity & inclusion social enterprise Creative Access confirms a drop in optimism about career futures for individuals from under-represented groups in the creative industries.
The research also details a lack of robust DE&I reporting from employers and workplace wellbeing support.
The not-for-profit’s survey finds DE&I reporting standards are not being met, insufficient focus on mid and senior-level talent and stagnant DE&I spending “are critical obstacles in the way of achieving higher career optimism and progression among individuals.”
In Creative Access’ 2023 Thrive report, four in five TV employers acknowledged the need for a shift in DE&I focus from entry-level to all stages, however this year, most (66%) admit to continuing to prioritise entry-level talent.
The survey also found that only one in three employers have increased DE&I spending over the last 12 months, a drop from 60% the previous year and that 41% of organisations “demonstrate poor DE&I reporting practices.”
The survey found that one in four of respondents have no access to wellbeing support at work. Factors such as working hours (19%), team dynamics (19%), and lack of focus on wellbeing (15%) were the most commonly cited reasons for work negatively impacting mental health.
In TV and film specifically, only 32% of workers said they were feeling optimistic about their future in the sector (versus the average 46% in the Creative Industries).
Only half of employers (51%) reported an increase in representativeness of their workforce, a fall against last year (65%). This comes as 41% of employers admit to having poor or non-existent DE&I reporting practices and has resulted in a drop year-on-year in career optimism from (51% to 46% overall), with disabled individuals experiencing one of the lowest rates of career optimism (30%). Over a quarter of those from lower socio-economic backgrounds said finances were the greatest barrier to their career progression, (11% higher than the average).
For individuals from Black, Asian and ethnically diverse backgrounds, “there appears to be a career ceiling”, with individuals citing the biggest barrier to progression as organisation structure (36%), whereas those who identify as disabled (26%) and from lower SES backgrounds (20%) ranked location as their greatest barrier to progression.
61% of individuals in receipt of Creative Access services have reported achieving career progression in the last year, versus 37% of those not in receipt of services.
Respondents from lower socio-economic (SES) backgrounds also reported a severe gap in access to contacts & networks to progress their career (56% in receipt of services versus 13% not in receipt of services). Meanwhile 82% of organisations attributed progress against their DE&I goals to working with Creative Access.
Josie Dobrin, co-founder & executive chair, Creative Access: “The creative industries are at a critical juncture in their DE&I efforts. Despite intentions to expand support beyond entry-level roles, data tells a different story, leading to decreased career optimism, especially among individuals with disabilities and freelancers facing a shrinking market. To foster true inclusivity bold actions are needed at all talent stages, including tailored career development programs, mid-level positive action traineeships, and elevating under-represented mid and senior-level employees. The industry must shift from intentions to decisive action. By adopting comprehensive DE&I strategies, organisations can enhance career optimism and enrich the creative landscape. The time to act is now for a more vibrant and inclusive industry.”
The full report is here – https://creativeaccess.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Thrive-report-2024-1.pdf
Jon Creamer
Share this story
