Creative Skillset is calling for more employers to adopt fair approaches to the way they recruit and pay interns as part of a campaign to promote best practice across the Creative Industries.

The campaign calls on employers to improve access and diversity in the creative workforce and advocate best practice by adopting Creative Skillset’s updated Guidelines for Employers Offering Work Placement Schemes.

Developed in consultation with employers, trade associations and unions, the guidelines were launched last night at the Opening Doors to the Creative Industries event. The evening, hosted by Mark Benson, Global MD of VFX house MPC focussed on promoting best practice for internships.

The Creative Industries Council Skills Group (CIC) found that its lack of diversity means the creative sector risks missing out on talented individuals with the potential to drive growth. The guidelines aim to help extend opportunities for quality internships and other work placements.

The Rt Hon Dr Vince Cable MP, Secretary of State and joint chair of the CIC, who spoke at the event said: “Internships and work experience can be a valuable way of helping people get into work and realise their ambitions. No one should be prevented from fulfilling their potential just because their personal circumstances mean they can’t get a foot on the ladder.

“The law on the National Minimum Wage is clear and interns need to be paid in a fair way. Anyone who feels they are being exploited should contact the Pay and Work Rights Helpline on 0800 917 2368 who will actively investigate every complaint.”

Creative Skillset will be promoting the guidelines through the CIC, employers, trade associations and unions in a bid to enable employers to take practical steps to fairer access for interns. They will be shared with individuals looking for work placements though careers information and advice organisations.

Creative Skillset will be reporting back on the initial stages of the campaign to the CIC in November 2013.

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