BAFTA and Oscar Nominees Saved by Government’s £2.25bn Film Rescue Plan
Big-name TV hits and Oscar-nominated films survived the pandemic lockdowns thanks to the Government’s blockbuster Film and TV Restart Scheme. The support package not only saved thousands of jobs but also pumped a whopping £2.25 billion into the UK economy.
100,000 Jobs Saved Across 1,200 Productions
- The Restart Scheme backed over 100,000 cast and crew jobs on more than 1,200 productions, including hits like Gentleman Jack, His Dark Materials, and the Oscar-nominated film Living.
- The financial return was staggering — benefits were 115 times greater than the cost to the Government.
- The scheme provided vital insurance coverage protecting productions from costly Covid-related shutdowns.
Blockbusters and Small Shows Alike Got a Lifeline
Big titles like Peaky Blinders, Blue Jean, and Bafta-nommed Brian & Charles all benefited. Smaller productions, including daytime favourite Steph’s Packed Lunch, also received support, helping sustain the industry at every level.
Industry Icons Praise Scheme’s Impact
Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer said: “Our screen industries are an economic powerhouse, and we should be proud the UK is one of the best places in the world to create blockbuster content. When the pandemic threatened this success, we stepped in to protect jobs, keep the cameras rolling and help producers make the exceptional TV and films the UK is known for.”
John McVay, chief exec of screen trade body Pact, added: “The rapid launch of the Restart Scheme saved many small British production businesses from collapse, safeguarded jobs and ensured the UK public could continue to enjoy great British programmes and films.”
BFI Chief Executive Ben Roberts said: “The scheme showcased government and industry collaboration at its best, allowing over a thousand productions to get made and contributing billions to the UK economy. It has been crucial in the industry’s post-pandemic recovery.”
Nationwide Impact and Future Growth
The scheme wasn’t just London-focused — 58% of productions supported were outside the capital, spreading the benefits across the country. Now, with restrictions lifted, the UK’s film and TV industries are booming again. In 2023 alone, production spend hit a record £6.27 billion, creating more jobs and driving economic growth nationwide.
