In a significant move, top UK YouTubers are advocating for government support and recognition of digital creators as a legitimate profession, highlighting their economic contributions.
Top UK YouTubers Call for Government Support
Leading YouTubers such as Amelia Dimoldenberg, Brandon B, and Max Klymenko have endorsed a groundbreaking report from YouTube, advocating for government assistance and formal recognition of digital creators as a legitimate profession.
The Creator Consultation
Over 10,000 UK digital creatives participated in The Creator Consultation, leading to YouTube’s unveiling of recommendations that include government recognition for creators, industry representation, improved access to financing, and enhanced filming infrastructure.
Economic Impact of Creators
In 2023, YouTube’s research revealed that its creator ecosystem contributed over £2 billion ($2.8 billion) to the UK economy and supported more than 45,000 jobs. Despite this, the platform’s executives argue that the full-time professions of creators like Dimoldenberg are still not sufficiently acknowledged. The report is set to be discussed with YouTube executives in the United States later this month.
Supporting Young Creators
Dimoldenberg stated, “Creators play a vital role in our economy, yet we must do more to provide clear pathways for young creators to develop the skills and resources necessary to reach their full potential. We should support and nurture aspiring creators at the beginning of their journeys.”
Need for Recognition
The report emphasizes that digital creators across all platforms should be treated similarly to those in traditional TV and film production. More than half (56%) of respondents expressed that they feel unheard in shaping government policies affecting their work, while nearly half (43%) believe their value is unrecognized by the broader creative industry.
Government Engagement
In anticipation of the creative industries sector plan published last week, YouTube executives, including UK and Ireland boss Alison Lomax and UK policy chief Alex Rawle, met with culture minister Chris Bryant to lay the groundwork for their proposals. They are optimistic that some of their demands will be fulfilled, especially given that nearly 90% of watch time on UK YouTube channels comes from outside the UK.
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Key Demands from the Report
The YouTube report calls for the government to formally acknowledge the creator ecosystem under a minister’s responsibilities. Additionally, creators should be represented on industry bodies and councils, and be granted better access to financing options like mortgages and loans.
Challenges in Accessing Resources
Many contributors to the consultation reported that despite earning high salaries in full-time roles, they struggle with securing mortgages. Furthermore, only 13% of respondents indicated they have access to studio spaces, and just 9% felt adequately supported in securing filming locations and permits.
Advocating for Change
Lomax stated, “Based on the consultation’s findings, we are advocating for concrete policies—such as enhanced skills training initiatives and improved access to finance—that will drive meaningful change for this crucial, often underserved industry. These advancements will ensure that the influence, innovation, and talent of the UK creator economy can significantly contribute to the future growth of our overall creative industries and serve as a powerful export worldwide.”
