BFI Cheers as New Government Boosts the Screen Industry!

Culture secretary Lisa Nandy shared encouraging news for the screen sector last week during the economic growth summit held in Gateshead, announcing £60 million in fresh governmental support. This initiative comprises funding for the UK Global Screen Fund (£7 million); the BFI London Film Festival (£1.9 million); the BFI’s Certification Unit (£1.5 million); and the British Film Commission (£1 million).

“This government backing allows the UK to persist in producing internationally successful films, television, and screen content, enhancing our broader creative economy, fostering growth in the UK economy, and generating employment nationwide,” commented Ben Roberts, BFI chief executive. “Endorsing the UK Global Screen Fund has resulted in over 50 UK international co-productions and has supported UK screen enterprises to excel on the global stage. The BFI London Film Festival highlights cinema and London for viewers and the industry, attracting international filmmakers and talent to the UK, while also honoring British talent and innovation.”

The UK Global Screen Fund, managed by the BFI and supported by the DCMS, enhances international growth and distribution prospects for the UK’s independent screen industry, spanning film, TV, documentaries, animation, and interactive narrative gaming content. Recent films it has backed include the BAFTA-nominated (and BFI financed) Kneecap, the forthcoming release The Salt Path, and On Falling (also funded by BFI). The British Film Commission (BFC) plays a crucial role in promoting the UK as a destination for inward investment production.

The government is additionally implementing reforms to facilitate shorter apprenticeships, marking a preliminary step towards a more adaptable Growth and Skills Levy – a change that will also benefit the UK screen sectors.