Equity secures pay hike for BBC performers

Performers’ union Equity and the BBC have agreed a range of improvements for performers including pay increases.

Under the deal there will be a 13% increase to fees based on payment per episode and associated payments, including production day payments, overtime and fees for supplementary attendances.

There will also be a 10% increase to minimum weekly fees and all other fees in the agreement.

The BBC TV Agreement covers performers working on in-house BBC Drama, Comedy, and Children’s productions including EastEnders, Casualty, Doctor Who and Silent Witness. It includes actors, walk-on and supporting artists, dancers, stunt performers, puppeteers and singers.

In addition to the pay increase, the new agreement includes provisions on bullying and harassment, access, reducing environmental impact and best practice in relation to audition self-tapes.

Natalie Barker, Equity TV official, said: “With this agreement, the BBC makes vital commitments to our members that their experience at work will be safe and dignified.”

The union said the pay increases will come into effect on 7 April, after members voted to accept the new terms.