Equity UK
The trade union representing performers and creative workers across the UK
Overview
Equity is the UK's trade union for professional performers, including actors, singers, dancers, stage managers, and other creative workers. Founded in 1930, it negotiates minimum pay rates, working conditions, and contracts across theatre, film, television, and live performance.
Members gain access to contract advice, legal support, insurance, and representation in disputes with employers. Equity also campaigns on industry issues such as diversity, pay equity, and safe working environments.
How It Works
Unlike SAG-AFTRA in the US, Equity UK membership does not restrict actors from taking non-union work. This makes it accessible to actors at all career stages who want union protections without limiting their opportunities.
Membership fees are based on earnings from the previous year, with a minimum annual subscription for lower earners. Joining grants access to member benefits, networking events, and the Equity job information service.
Who Uses It
Membership is highly recommended for any working actor in the UK. The legal and contractual protections alone are invaluable, and Equity's advocacy work benefits the entire UK performing arts community. Equity has been instrumental in establishing minimum pay standards across West End, regional, and fringe theatre, as well as negotiating agreements with broadcasters like the BBC and ITV. The union also provides access to a benevolent fund that supports members experiencing financial hardship.
Pricing & Plans
Equity membership fees are calculated on a sliding scale based on the member's earnings from the previous year, with a minimum annual subscription of approximately £132 for members earning under a certain threshold. Higher earners pay proportionally more, with the fee structure designed to be fair across all income levels. There is a one-time joining fee of approximately £39, which is payable upon initial registration. Student membership is available at a reduced rate for those currently enrolled in accredited drama school programs, providing early access to union benefits and resources. Compared to SAG-AFTRA's initiation fee of over $3,000 in the US, Equity UK is remarkably affordable to join. Payment can be made monthly via direct debit, easing the financial burden for actors with irregular income. The value provided through legal support, insurance, and contract advice far exceeds the membership cost for any actor working regularly in the UK.
Pros & Cons
What's Great
Equity provides genuinely valuable legal support, including free contract vetting and advice that can save members thousands of pounds in potential disputes with employers. The public liability insurance included with membership covers performers during rehearsals and performances, which is essential protection that would cost significantly more to obtain independently. Unlike SAG-AFTRA, Equity does not restrict members from taking non-union work, giving actors complete flexibility in the roles they accept. The union's campaigning work on issues such as diversity, pay transparency, and safe working conditions has materially improved the UK performing arts industry for all workers. Equity's negotiated minimum rates across West End, touring, and repertory theatre provide a crucial financial safety net that prevents exploitation. The networking events, workshops, and member forums create opportunities to connect with fellow professionals and stay informed about industry developments.
What Could Be Better
Equity's influence is strongest in theatre, and its ability to enforce standards in film and television is more limited compared to the grip SAG-AFTRA has on the US screen industry. Some actors, particularly those working primarily in independent or fringe theatre, may find that the annual fee is difficult to justify when their earnings are minimal and they rarely need the union's services. The union has been criticized for being slow to adapt to the rapidly changing digital content landscape, where new forms of production do not always fall neatly under existing agreements. Equity's political positions and public campaigns do not always align with the views of all members, and some actors feel the union is overly focused on advocacy at the expense of practical member services. The process of raising a dispute or complaint through Equity can be bureaucratic and time-consuming, with some members reporting slow response times. For actors working exclusively outside traditional union-covered sectors, such as corporate events or private functions, Equity membership provides limited direct benefit.
Our Recommendation
We recommend Equity membership for any actor who works or intends to work professionally in the UK, particularly in theatre, television, or film covered by union agreements. The legal support and insurance alone justify the cost for most working actors, and the negotiated minimum rates provide essential financial protection. Actors who are still students should take advantage of the reduced student membership rate to begin building their relationship with the union early. If you work exclusively in non-traditional or digital content sectors where Equity agreements do not apply, the direct benefits may be limited, though the insurance and advocacy work still provide value. There is no real alternative to Equity for union representation in the UK performing arts, so the decision is less about choosing between options and more about whether union membership aligns with your career needs. For international actors planning to work in the UK, joining Equity demonstrates professional commitment and ensures you understand your rights under UK employment law.
Pro Tips
Join Equity before you need it, not after a problem arises, because the legal support and contract advice are most valuable when accessed proactively. Always have your contracts reviewed by Equity's advisory team before signing, as even standard agreements from reputable employers can contain clauses that disadvantage performers. Attend Equity branch meetings and events to build your network within the union and stay informed about industry issues affecting your sector. Take advantage of the free workshops and professional development opportunities that Equity regularly offers to members, as these provide both skills and networking value. If you are offered work below Equity minimum rates, contact the union before declining to understand your options and to help Equity track employers who undercut standards. Keep your membership current even during quiet periods in your career, as a lapse can affect your access to benefits when you need them most and may require paying a rejoining fee.