The UK’s prominent union for actors, Equity, has taken a firm stance advocating for enhanced working conditions for performers in the video game sector. During the recent BAFTA Games Awards, the organization highlighted the urgent need for improved compensation and more favorable terms for actors engaged in this burgeoning industry.
Concerns Over Stagnant Pay and Industry Practices
Equity’s call to action comes at a time when pay for workers in the video games industry has remained stagnant over the past decade. This stagnation is particularly concerning given that several major gaming companies have benefitted from substantial tax breaks, amounting to nearly £200 million. John Barclay, Equity’s assistant general secretary for recorded media, expressed his appreciation for the industry’s successes showcased at the awards, while also emphasizing the pressing issues that need to be addressed.
“It is great to see the successes of the video games industry on show at the BAFTA Games Awards, and for the incredible achievements of its workforce to be celebrated across the categories – from performers to designers, developers, and more,” Barclay remarked. However, he underscored the necessity for industry leaders to acknowledge and rectify the poor practices frequently reported by Equity members.
- Barclay pointed out that despite the industry’s impressive valuation of over £7 billion in the UK, many of the richest companies in the world continue to overlook Equity’s requests for collaboration.
- He noted that establishing union-negotiated agreements, which are standard in the United States, would significantly enhance pay, terms, and conditions for performers in the UK.
Furthermore, Equity raised critical concerns regarding the lack of proper protections for performers against the misuse of artificial intelligence and non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). The union advocates for safer working environments to prevent injuries related to vocal strain or physical harm, as well as to ensure respectful handling of intimate scenes during recordings.
In an industry that generates substantial wealth, Equity firmly believes that its members deserve better treatment and working conditions. The call for change resonates strongly as the union seeks to transform the landscape for video game performers in the UK.
