UK Film Exhibition Sector 2026 Workplace Survey
UK Film Exhibition Sector 2026 Workplace Survey
In partnership with the Independent Cinema Office, the Bridge Group has published new findings in the 2026 Workplace Survey, which gathered evidence about who works in UK film exhibition and the conditions shaping their working lives.
The survey sought responses from people working across cinema exhibition (cinemas, mixed arts venues, film festivals, film societies, film collectives), including employees, freelancers, volunteers and anyone involved in helping audiences access cinema in a public space. 620 individuals took part in the survey, representing a robust sample of the film exhibition sector – capturing roughly 3% of the total workforce – essential for making a clear and evidence‑led case to government and industry stakeholders about where investment is most urgently needed.
Notable findings include:
Issues with the pipeline into the sector, particularly for people from ethnically diverse and less privileged socio-economic backgrounds.
Less Black, Asian and ethnically diverse people and disabled people in leadership roles.
An ageing workforce and people earlier in their career are less certain about staying.
Organisations are more reliant on volunteers and unpaid labour.
A notable increase in training uptake, however, barriers remain with cost and workload most cited.
Overwork seems to be common, but compensation is limited.
The workforce survey findings provide a roadmap for change. The ICO is committed to working with partners across the UK to ensure that independent cinema remains a place where everyone can build sustainable, meaningful and joyful careers.