As we confront the harsh realities of our current film industry landscape, many of us are grappling with the weight of financial distress. With production work in British Columbia down by 30-40% following the writers’ and actors’ strikes in 2023, the uncertainty of finding our next job is causing significant stress. For seasoned professionals and newcomers alike, the impact of this downturn is profound, and it’s affecting not just our wallets but our mental health too.
The Current Landscape
The film and motion picture sector has long been a challenging yet rewarding field, characterized by its ebb and flow of contract work. However, the recent downturn has left many of us waiting longer than ever for the next opportunity to come along. Unions are hearing from an increasing number of experienced workers who find themselves without calls for work, leading to anxiety and frustration about their futures.
The Financial Struggles of Workers
Financial distress can feel overwhelming, especially when it compounds the pressure we already face in our industry. Many workers are accustomed to the unpredictability of contract work, but this current situation is different. The uncertainty of not knowing when the next paycheck will arrive can be incredibly taxing on both mental and emotional health.
Murray Baker from the Financial Empowerment Program at Family Services of Greater Vancouver reminds us that “Canadians report that personal finances are one of the top stressors related to their mental health.” This stress is all too familiar in our industry, where job security is often elusive, and financial planning can feel like an uphill battle.
Strategies for When There Is Work
When there is work and income, it’s essential to establish solid financial practices. Here are some strategies to help navigate the unpredictable nature of our jobs:
Build an Emergency Fund: Aim to save three to six months’ worth of living expenses during busy periods. This fund can serve as a buffer during dry spells.
Budget Wisely: Take time to track your income and expenses, identifying areas where you can cut back if necessary. “Setting up a budget might take a little time initially, but once it’s done, it only takes about half an hour each month to review it,” Murray advises.
Avoid High-Interest Debt: If you need to borrow, opt for loans or lines of credit with lower interest rates rather than relying on credit cards or payday loans.
Educate Yourself: Utilize resources and workshops offered by programs like the Financial Empowerment Program, which can help you make informed financial decisions.
For Those Already in Distress
If you’ve been waiting for work that hasn’t shown up and now find yourself in debt and distress, here are some immediate options to consider:
Consumer Proposals: These can be a viable option to help reduce your debt burden. Through the Credit Counselling Society, you can explore creating a proposal to settle your debts for less than you owe while avoiding bankruptcy.
Reach Out for Support: Don’t hesitate to contact financial professionals who can provide personalized advice and support tailored to your situation. Meet with your bank, and financial planner, or call your union’s Employee/Member Assistance Program which will offer free financial advice and budget and planning tools
Career Shift Considerations: If the current environment has made you rethink your career in the film industry, it might be time to explore new opportunities for the short or long-term. Consider looking into training grants offered by unions and programs through WorkBC, which can assist with skill development and career transitions. For example, some unions provide financial assistance for members seeking skills training to expand their scope of work.
Access Career Counselling: Career Counsellors and Coaches have expertise in supporting people under career and work stress and finding alternate options. Your Union’s Employee/Member Assistance Program will offer career services, as will your local WorkBC office as well as private fee services that may be eligible for reimbursement through extended health plans if the career specialist is also a registered counsellor.
Small Business Grants: If you’re self-employed or freelancing, check out available small business grants that can provide a financial cushion during this challenging period. These grants can often help you pivot to new projects or areas of focus within the industry.
Skills Grants:
The StrongerBC future skills grant is available to most British Columbians and covers up to $3,500 in eligible short-term skills training at public post-secondary institutions. This grant is available regardless of financial situation. There is a list within this link that provides details on eligible post-secondary institutions and programs. More information here.
The B.C. Employer Training Grant provides funding to small, medium and large enterprises to support skills training for their workforces, including prospective new hires. Many of our LOC members may be eligible to apply. More information here.
Mental Health Considerations
The intersection of financial distress and mental health is critical. Anxiety about money can exacerbate feelings of isolation and stress, particularly in an industry that thrives on collaboration and teamwork. It’s essential to acknowledge these feelings and reach out for support—whether it’s talking to a friend, connecting with a therapist, reaching out to your union's Employee/Member Assistance Program or seeking help from mental health resources available within your community.
Community Support
As we navigate these challenging times, let’s remember the power of community. Sharing our experiences and supporting one another can make a world of difference. There are countless stories of resilience within our industry, and by leaning on each other, we can create a stronger network of support. Organizations like AFC provide social and financial support (afchelps.ca).
Tune In to the Podcast
If you’re looking for more insights into financial management, don’t forget to check out our podcast episode featuring Murray Baker. He provides valuable strategies for managing finances during uncertain times and shares practical advice for building resilience. You can listen to the episode here.
Resources for Support
As we work through these difficult times, here are some resources you can tap into for support:
Financial Empowerment Program at Family Services of Greater Vancouver:
Offers free financial education and coaching. https://fsgv.ca/programs/community-programs/financial-empowerment/ .
Podcast with Murray Baker here.
AFC:
Free Webinar Nov 20th, 2024, Finding Wellness in Financial Stress. The AFC’s Christine Rossi-Wright and Hayley Schmalz, aims to help participants find and maintain a sense of mental wellness while tackling personal finances. https://afchelps.ca/workshop/wellness-in-financial-stress/
Navigator is a free, personalized, confidential assistance service that connects arts and entertainment industry workers to mental health resources, programs, and supports. https://afchelps.ca/resources/navigator/
Designated Sharing Time (DST) - a monthly virtual meeting space to talk, vent, problem-solve, laugh, collaborate, cry, and feel the strength of others. https://afchelps.ca/resource/peer-support/dst/
Listen to our Podcast “Accessing the Right Resources” with Emily Hill, Case Manager at the AFC to learn about their services here.
WorkBC: Offers programs for skill development and job training. Visit WorkBC.
BC Credit Counselling Society: https://nomoredebts.org/canada-credit-counselling/bc
Read our previous post on “Navigating Uncertainty: Managing Anxiety and Emotional Stress in Times of Labour Disruptions”here.
Access support from your Union’s Employee/Member Assistance Program: Union benefits listed here.
Union Training Supports
If you are a member of one of the six BC unions that generously support and fund Calltime Mental Health, check out these funding opportunities for training and education:
ACFC West Local 2020
Courses on the attached list are reimbursed at a rate of 75%, up to a maximum of $1350 per year. Additionally, any Actsafe courses are reimbursed at 100%, up to an additional $1350 per year. This provides a combined total of $2700 per calendar year for members in good standing.
ACFC also offer access to the “Compassionate Fund” for members experiencing “dire need due to medical distress.” Information about this can be found on their website: https://www.acfcwest.com/2013/07/04/compassionate-fund/
DGC BC
IATSE 891
ICG 669
Teamsters 155
UBCP / ACTRA
Conclusion
As we face the reality of a downturn in production work, let’s come together as a community to support one another. By sharing our experiences, seeking help, and implementing practical financial strategies, we can navigate these challenges and emerge stronger. Remember, it’s okay to ask for support, and together we can create a healthier, more resilient film and motion picture sector.
Let’s stay connected and keep the conversation going. We’re all in this together!
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