Equity's guide to Small Scale Theatre

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Small Scale Theatre within Equity

• Equity has a Small Scale Theatre Committee. Made up of elected members the committee takes forward issues of concern to the small scale community and takes part in negotiations of the ITC (Independent Theatre Council) Equity agreement.
  
• On the ruling body, the Equity Council, there is a Small Scale Councilor who ensures that such issues are given time and space at the highest level of the union.
  
• Equity also periodically sets up short term special working parties which concentrate on initiatives for this varied specialism. "Mapping the field" being the current investigation.
  
• Equity staff based in six offices around the UK have specialist knowledge and involve themselves in the day to day matters faced by members working in the small scale field. The are always happy to give help and support as well as making company visits.
  
• There is also a Theatre Helpdesk to deal with questions and is available from Monday - Friday from 9.30 am - 5.30 pm.

Working matters

• Equity has in place agreements with the Independent Theatre Council (ITC) which covers all aspects of work, such as hours and conditions as well as rates of pay, and working under Equity terms means you are better protected.
  
• Many small scale productions are done on Equity/ITC contracts but there are also Equity guidelines to help those working on non-Equity contracts. These guidelines include "Working on the Fringe" and a forthcoming publication of "Guidelines for Workshops".
  
• Equity also operates a Job Information Service which means members can find out about paid work available across the industry.
  
• Even if you are not working on an equity contract you may still be eligible to join the union and make use of the protection and services.

Health & Safety

• This is an important aspect of Equity's work. Continually monitoring legislation and proving information for all it's members in the "Guide to Health and Safety".
  
• The huge variety of small scale venues and the varying standards of equipment, means that small scale spaces can be even more hazardous than other spaces and so advice on these issues are especially important to small scale practitioners.

Specialist help

• FREE legal advice on personal injury or contract issues and when necessary cases are fought at all levels from Small Claims to High Court.
  
• FREE access to a solicitor for one consultation on a non-work related legal issue.
  
• FREE advice on Tax, National Insurance and welfare benefits. Equity frequently represents members at Benefits Agency tribunals.

Equity's members' experiences

"Last summer I broke my wrist when an aerial slide collapsed during rehearsals. Even though the company in question was not operating Equity contracts, Equity still took up the case on my behalf as I am a fully paid up member. They are covering all legal costs and Equity's solicitors are making a claim for compensation."

"I was freelancing on a Theatre in Education show earlier in the year but did not receive payment once the show had finishes. After more than seven weeks of chasing the company for the money and being fobbed off on each occasion, I told them I was going to contact Equity about the non-payment. The cheque arrived the next day."

Other benefits of membership

• FREE - Insurance packages including public liability, backstage and 24 hour accident cover when working.
  
• Special dancer's accident cover which gives members access to specialist scans not readily available on the NHS.
• Help and advice on contracts and terms of engagement.
  
• FREE instant access to the British Association of Performing Arts Medicine Trust help line (BPAMT) giving immediate information, assistance and speedy referral to a consultant specialising in performance related injuries.
  
• Eligibility to join the "Actors' Centres" and "Scottish Actors' Studio" giving access to skill development.
  
• Equity's Job Information Service which includes work from across the industry available on the members only area on Equity's web site.
  
• A wide range of information leaflets on topics such as "Advice & Rights", and "Equality Issues" are always available to members, and updates information is on the members only area on Equity's web site.
  
  www.equity.org.uk
  
• Distribution of royalties and residuals for television and film re-runs, video sales and recordings and, through the British Equity Collecting Society, Equity distributes monies due to performers and creative artists as a result of european legislation.
  
• Equity has produced training materials for members on subjects such as marketing, business and IT skills. Computer skills training is available.