Industry bodies UK Theatre and the Society Of London Theatre (SOLT) have released an updated version of their 10 principles for safe and inclusive working spaces in theatre.
The principles were first created in 2017, largely in response to the #MeToo movement. They form part of UK Theatre’s Safer and More Supportive Working Practices Handbook, designed to help employers “promote a shared responsibility for creating and maintaining a healthy working environment”.
The guidelines are aimed at both workers and employers. One example reads: “We do not tolerate bullying, harassment or discrimination on any grounds, and will ensure that processes are in place for the reporting and investigation of these serious issues.”
Another states: “Individuals who have made complaints or participate in good faith in any investigation into bullying, harassment, or discrimination should not suffer any form of reprisal or victimisation as a result.”
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Supported by 21 industry trade bodies, unions and membership organisations, the principles are available as a free, downloadable A3 poster to be printed and displayed by companies around the UK. Actors, creators and crew members are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the principles.
“The industry needs to continually make efforts to ensure that these principles and policies are not just words on the page”
Sebastian Cater, head of UK Theatre, said: “We strongly encourage everyone working in the industry to acquaint themselves with these principles and help us move towards a more respectful and inclusive working culture. Hopefully the 10 Principles posters will become a familiar sight in theatre workspaces across the country.”
Actors’ union Equity is among those backing the principles. Assistant General Secretary Hilary Hadley said: “The industry needs to continually make efforts to ensure that these principles and policies are not just words on the page. Many producers are actively doing this and developing best practice. Equity will continue to press until this is all producers in the theatre industry.”
UK Theatre and SOLT are launching other initiatives aiming to create a safer working culture and support the victims of harassment and discrimination. One example is the Anti-Racism Touring Rider, which is currently under consultation. More details of industry resources can be found in the diversity and inclusion resource library on UK Theatre’s website.
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