The TV Collective launches a first of its kind study that will look to reveal the Best Places to Work in the UK Entertainment industry based on ethnicity

The TV Collective (TVC), in collaboration with Dr David Gyimah from Cardiff University and Lewis Silkin, a leading employment legal firm today announces the launch of a ground-breaking new study that is set to reveal the best places to work in the UK Media and Entertainment industry based on ethnicity.

The study, which is the first of its kind, will shine a spotlight on good employment practices in the hopes of inspiring an improved industry-wide standard, will take the form of an annual report which will include interviews that will be conducted under the expert supervision and guidance of research partners – Dr David Gyimah of Cardiff University and Lewis Silkin LLP.

This new yearly study aims to showcase the organisations where voices are heard, culture is thriving, and all employees, no matter the background - are engaged.

Simone Pennant MBE and Founder of TVC, says: “It’s the anniversary of the tragic death of George Floyd, and a year since companies across the board made bold statements about improving greater diversity within their workplace. Are we seeing meaningful changes? We want to find out and so, now feels like the right time to ask the media, TV and production community what’s working. Who are the best TV, Film and broadcasters to work for and who’s promoting inclusive policies. Our ultimate aim is to shine a light on best practice, as the more we can celebrate and showcase this, the more companies will want to hold themselves to account and maintain high diversity and inclusion standards.”

Carys Roberts, Executive Director of IPPR adds, “A strong media is crucial to the proper functioning of our democratic system; it shapes how we understand and relate to the world around us, and it should equip citizens to make informed, sound democratic decisions. It is therefore imperative that our media industry reflects, represents, and caters to all citizens in our society. This study will support that goal by providing a valuable resource for employers on improving workforce diversity, promoting equality of opportunity, and building inclusive and thriving workplaces.”

"A perfect combination - the longest established leading minority ethnic grass roots organisation, a centre of academic excellence and a leading law firm coming together to do essential work on employment standards. Another step forward on the long walk to equality and fairness" adds, Simon Albury MBE, Chair, Campaign for Broadcasting Equality CIO

Deborah Williams, Executive Director, Creative Diversity Network, comments: "Our Race and Ethnic diversity deep dive report from last year identified some of the problems in UK television at a senior level and in decision-making roles. I am pleased to see the Best Places to Work research is seeking to problem solve. I'm confident it will add meat to the bones by identifying and highlighting examples of good practice which can be spread throughout the industry and result in better representation."

Pat Younge, Former Chief Creative Officer of BBC, adds: “A lot of attention is rightly paid to recruiting black and asian staff, but sadly nowhere near enough work is put in to keeping them. The turnover rates for black and asian staff are depressingly high, and so a study like this into identifying workplaces that work for ALL their employees is long overdue and welcome."

The study will look to uncover employee satisfaction within their workplace, employer’s responses to the Covid-19 and Black Lives Matter issues, as well as scoring employers on its image, talent development and diversity on their senior management team. Participants will also be asked to evaluate other employers that stood out positively. The organisations that receive the highest total scores will make the final list each year, with the results announced in July at the IPPR Oxford Media Convention.

The study will survey those working full-time and part-time across the industry. Both freelancers and those with staff jobs, those just starting out to those in senior roles and running production companies.

Follow the link to take part in this study: https://www.thetvcollective.org/2021/05/25/what-are-the-best-places-to-work-in-our-industry/