Harlow Consulting launches major survey to safeguard film heritage

Harlow Consulting, a leading research agency, is inviting screen heritage collections and organisations to contribute to research commissioned by the British Film Institute (BFI) to better understand the current and future skills and training challenges in the screen heritage sector.

The BFI is a charitable organisation which promotes and preserves film-making and television in the UK

As part of the research, a survey which is now live, invites screen heritage professionals, including those in key roles such as film restoration, archiving, curation, and conservation, and those providing education and training for such roles to contribute their input.

The research will lead to an improved understanding of the skills gaps and workforce needs in the sector, including factors impacting retention and progression. It will aid the support, design and provision of training and education opportunities and inform policies and interventions to improve access to work in the sector, including interventions to improve the diversity of the workforce. Ultimately, it will play a pivotal role in ensuring that the next generation of professionals is equipped to preserve the UK’s rich film heritage.

This initiative comes as the industry faces increasing challenges in recruiting and retaining professionals. This survey is a direct response to the urgent need for a structured, industry-led approach to support those working in the field.

Ellie Moore, Senior Researcher at Harlow Consulting, who is leading the survey said: “We urge all those who work in this sector to take part. Our objective is to support the BFI in their mission to future proof the screen heritage sector, ensuring new generations of archivists, restorers, and curators have the necessary expertise to sustain and protect our film history. It takes just 10-15 minutes to complete it and have your voice heard to help shape the future of the industry.”

Arike Oke, BFI Executive Director, Knowledge, Learning and Collections says: “Time is ticking for the survival and sharing of our national screen heritage collections. To make sure that current and future students, filmmakers, creatives, producers, and the public can enjoy, use and be inspired by the nation’s moving image culture we need to train and retain a digital-ready diverse and inclusive workforce that is equipped with all the necessary skills and expertise. Support from professionals working in screen heritage by contributing their knowledge and expertise to this research via the survey is vital and will be much valued.”

The survey is open to all professionals working in screen heritage, film preservation, and related training roles.

To take part in the BFI Screen heritage skills survey, click here: Screen Heritage Skills and Training Survey

ENDS