Introduction to the Screen Growth Package
The British government has announced a financing package for the British film and TV industry, known as the "Screen growth package". This package is worth 75 million GBP and will play a crucial role in the government’s creative industry plan, which is set to be announced next week.
The British Global Screen Fund
The British Global Screen Fund (UKGSF) will receive an increased annual budget of 18 million GBP from 2026 to 2029, up from its current 7 million GBP. The UKGSF was launched in 2021 to support the international development and sales opportunities for the independent screen sector in the UK, following the country’s withdrawal from the European Union. Recent films supported by the fund include "Kneecap" and "The Salt Path".
Expansion of the National Film and Television School
The National Film and Television School (NFTS) will receive 10 million GBP to expand its facilities at its main location in Beaconsfield. This investment will be matched by 11 million GBP from industry and private supporters, including the Walt Disney Company, the Dana and Albert R. Broccoli Foundation, and Sky. The funding will be used to modernize the school’s facilities, making them fully accessible to students with disabilities, and to train 2,000 new students over the next ten years.
Investment in Research and Development
25 million GBP will be invested in five new research and development laboratories, focusing on the development of augmented reality and motion capture technology. The labs will also feature two showcase rooms to demonstrate new innovations from the creative industries, including film, TV, and games. This investment will help to establish the UK as a leader in the development of new technologies for the screen industries.
Support for the Film and TV Industry
The package will also include support for the BFI London Film Festival and the British Film Commission, with specific details to be announced next week. Additionally, funding will be provided for an extended BFI film academy, which will offer courses, events, and resources for young people between the ages of 16 and 25. The academy will aim to provide opportunities for young people from underrepresented backgrounds to enter the industry.
Regional Screen Agencies
A new creative growth fund worth 150 million GBP will be established to support the development of regional screen agencies and production companies across the country. The fund will be allocated to six strategic mayor’s authorities in cities such as Manchester, Bristol, Birmingham, and Sunderland.
The Future of the Creative Industry
The full plan for the creative industry will be published next week as part of the government’s industrial strategy. The film and TV industry has been identified as a key area for growth, along with music, video games, and advertising. A industry-task force, led by Baroness Shriti Vadera and Sir Peter Bazalgette, has been working on the sector plan since the beginning of the year.
Conclusion
Cultural secretary Lisa Nandy stated that the UK already has a strong track record in producing award-winning films and TV shows, but the government wants to continue to support the industry and establish the UK as the best place to make film and television. The screen growth package is a key part of this plan, and will help to drive growth and innovation in the creative industries.
