Who We Are

Based in the UK, the Animation & Visual Effects Union (AVU) is powered by a passionate team of volunteers - individuals just like you, who are actively working and contributing to this industry. As a distinct branch of a renowned entertainment union (BECTU), we focus on the unique needs and concerns of professionals within this sector.

 
 

Our core goal is to provide a strong platform for members to advocate unionisation in the UK VFX and Animation sectors.

As volunteers, we're dedicated to fostering solidarity; a foundation of collective action. Our contribution is just one piece of the puzzle, and the true strength lies in the active participation of our members.

By engaging in the process, it empowers us all to address industry issues, negotiate better standards and pay, and drive positive change. Together, we strive to create an environment where every professional in VFX/Animation can thrive and contribute to our vibrant creative community.

Join us and be part of positive change in our industries. Connect with us on Discord for discussions and questions. Your voice matters – let's shape the future of Animation and VFX together!

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 Why Unionise?

VFX & Animation professionals in the UK constantly face outdated working practices that contribute to burnout, depression and often leading to many leaving the industry after only a few years to seek a better work/life balance and fair pay.

What are these working practices?

  • Long unpredictable hours where overtime is often unpaid,

  • Pay that does not reflect their contribution to the the industry,

  • Fear of not getting a contract renewal as ‘you hadn’t worked past 8pm’ for example.

  • The gender pay gap

  • Lack of job security during strikes and pandemics

The AVU’s purpose is to work with an active membership to modernise the industry for:

  • Fair pay - Proportional to the success of projects

  • Paid Overtime - Nobody should work for free at the cost of their personal lives.

  • Better Working Standards - Strive for industry-wide standards helping people thrive

  • Better Protection at work - End the fear of contracts ending for unexplained reasons.

  • A More Ethical Industry - Ensure everyone is treated equally, no matter your ethnicity, sex or background.

 

 

 How to Form a Union

Note: This page focuses on how to unionise in the United Kingdom

  1. Talk to your co-workers

Share common concerns at work? Employer unwilling to discuss or rectify concerns? Get on our Discord and talk to colleagues.

2. Contact an Organiser

Reach out to the AVU Committee or contact our BECTU Representative.

3. Build Support

Rally people together in your company and build unanimous support to take action against an issue, such as pay.

4. Vote!

Everyone votes for or against action. If that issues has enough votes, then the union and its membership actively engage in the issue.

 
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Contact the Committee

Please use the form to submit any questions to the AVU Committee only. If you have questions regarding joining or your current membership then please contact membership@bectu.org.uk. For all legal questions, please email LPD@bectu.org.uk.

Submissions to this form are strictly confidential.

Contact BECTU

membership@bectu.org.uk - Questions regarding your membership or joining.

LDP@bectu.org.uk - Questions about any new or ongoing legal cases.