By Alex Smith
BRITISH CREATIVE industries could face a “severe skills shortage” after Brexit, according to a report from the Creative Industries Federation.
The organisation, which represents the interests of the UK’s creative industries, released its Global Talent Report on October 19, and outlined several challenges facing the industry, which contributes £87 billion to the UK economy.
This success relies massively on an international talent base, which is why the report calls for a re-evaluation of the immigration system, to ensure continued success in the post Brexit era.
Screen Yorkshire, which runs the £15 million Yorkshire Content Fund, the largest investment fund of its kind in the UK, and behind recent productions such as Dad’s Army and Peaky Blinders, believes it is crucial to defend freedom of movement.
Chief executive Sally Joynson said: “The film industry is booming in Yorkshire, with our recent figures showing the region is the fastest growing for film and TV in the UK – and we will be doing everything that we can to ensure that things continue to move in the right direction once Brexit negotiations get underway.
“The creative industries are massively dependent on international collaboration and we will work closely with industry partners to ensure that the UK can continue to attract the best talent and investment.’’
Joynson also stressed the importance of investment into the training and development of domestic talent so that the industry continues to thrive.
While Brexit may create difficulties for the industry, the UK may still remain an attractive destination for foreign talent.
Nicoleta Ionescu, 32, from Bucharest, Romania, is studying BA fashion at Leeds Arts University, and says that Brexit has not put her off continuing her career in the UK.
She said: “My future is here in the UK, and my residency plans are in an advanced stage, so Brexit is not a concern for me.”
Nicoleta hopes to run her own business as a freelance fashion designer and communicator after she has completed her studies.
Responding to the report, a government spokesperson from the Department for Digital, Culture Media and Sport reaffirmed the government’s intention to support creative industries in the UK.
They said: “The UK’s creative industries are world-leading and it is crucial we work with this sector to ensure we can capitalise on the opportunities presented by Brexit.
“After we leave the EU we will have an immigration system which works in the best interests of the UK.”