Our MD Becky Stevens recently shared an article on Linkedin about Bectu report that highlighted the poor working conditions faced by some event and festival crews, where basic welfare needs are overlooked.
The comments on Becky’s post revealed some interesting insights:
- Event workers frequently describe their conditions as the “Wild West.”
- Many experienced professionals are leaving the industry due to these harsh environments
- Ironically, the most profitable events often lead to the poorest conditions for workers.
- Some event organisations put staff welfare at the heart of their operations, while others neglect it entirely (and word spreads quickly about either one!)
- Crew leaders have had to threaten to withdraw their services unless their staff welfare is addressed.
- The cost of providing essential campsite utilities and sustenance for large crews (100+) is minimal per head, yet many event companies fail to budget for it.
- Security and health and safety companies have had staff walk off a site upon encountering appalling conditions.
- There is a striking hypocrisy between the image of some ethical, progressive festivals and how they treat their staff.
- It is not uncommon for workers to be asked to sign away their worker rights before starting onsite.
- An industry wide event workplace culture exists where enduring tough conditions is seen as a ‘badge of honour’, leaving little room for complaints or change.
- Good working conditions lead to a more dedicated, experienced crew that are happy to return year after year – benefiting the event as a whole.
So, how do we create lasting change and move away from the “tough it out” event culture?
While we recognise that live events and festivals often operate under tight budget constraints and long hours are to be expected, poor welfare or unsafe conditions should never be accepted.
If some event organisations (big and small) can successfully manage staff welfare despite industry challenges, then all can incorporate good welfare practices into their planning from the outset. As event industry suppliers, we must collectively call out bad practices when we see them, ensuring that the health and safety of our workers and crews is truly prioritised—not just discussed.
Production Manager Alice Black, from Bectu’s Live Events Network, said:
“Our survey uncovered what many of us who work at festivals know only too well. Poor sanitation, long shifts and risky work without proper protection – often in combination – are unfortunately all too common.
Bectu’s Live Events Network is working to change this. We encourage anyone working behind-the-scenes at festivals to get involved to help improve conditions for everyone.”
Let’s work together to rebuild events culture, one that values and supports the people who make the events we all love possible!
Read Bectu’s article Here:
