Bectu Launches Biggest Ever Survey
British broadcasting union Bectu is launching what it is calling its largest ever survey of those working behind the scenes in TV and film. The union is asking workers across the UK’s creative industries about their experiences and views on key issues facing the sector, including pay, employment practices, mental health and wellbeing and finances. The move comes with the freelance workforce in a perilous position, with thousands exiting the sector as they struggle for work and grapple with low pay and poor conditions. Bectu has repeatedly stressed that this is worsening as time goes on. “Creative industry workers are critical to our economy and to our social and cultural fabric,” said Bectu head Philippa Childs. “But data on creative workers is lacking. The freelance nature of the creative industries means that freelancers often fall through data gaps on employment statistics, while without formal employment structures, their voices are often not heard.” The survey is open until March 12.
Sweden’s SVT Sets Sights On Skiing Series
Sweden’s SVT is hitting the slopes for its latest TV format. The pubcaster has greenlit Against All Odds, a celebrity sports format created by Banijay-backed Meter/Jarowskij, which the distributor will be selling at the London Screenings. Against All Odds sees celebrity participants from non-Swedish backgrounds tackle the 56-mile Vasaloppet challenge – not just testing their physical limits but exploring the sport’s cultural significance. Madelene Hansson, CEO of Meter/ Jarowskij, said: “Through moments of laughter, raw emotion, and triumph, Against All Odds is a journey of growth and perseverance, showcasing Sweden’s sporting heritage, while striving make it welcoming to all. Our public broadcaster, SVT, is a hugely collaborative partner as we highlight our treasured Vasaloppet, working to make this incredible sport open to everyone.”
New Zealand’s Longest-Running Drama Heads To STV Player
New Zealand’s longest-running drama is heading to the UK via a deal with STV Player. Medical series Shortland Street, which launched more than 30 years ago, will air episodes on STV in line with their New Zealand broadcast for the first time. The series follows staff at Shortland Street Hospital in the fictional Auckland suburb of Ferndale, following all the drama they face on a daily basis. A 2025 revamp has seen a number of new characters and fresh storylines. The show is returning to UK screens as part of STV Player’s new deal with distributor, All3Media International. An earlier deal saw STV Player become the first streaming service to relaunch much-loved British soap Brookside from the start. Richard Williams, Managing Director of Digital at STV, said: “In New Zealand and several other international territories, Shortland Street has become a cultural phenomenon, so it’s a major coup for us to be able to make STV Player its UK home. The show is a magical blend of ‘just-one-more-episode’ drama, good-natured humour, warmth and topicality – everything we know STV Player viewers look for when choosing their next TV obsession.”
