November 13, 2017

TIGA, the network for games developers and digital publishers and the trade association representing the video games industry, has called on the Government to keep the UK open to creative talent after Brexit.

The trade body has proposed a number of options to ensure that the UK’s video games industry remains a global success story.

Policies submitted by TIGA to the Migration Advisory Committee include the reciprocal freedom of movement for EU workers with a job offer, the introduction of 1,500 work permits per year for the video games industry, and adding video games roles to the Shortage Occupation List.

TIGA says that the UK video games industry adds £1.2 billion every year to the UK economy. Yet, to an important extent, its ability to compete globally depends on its capacity to attract global talent. The video games industry relies on its highly skilled workforce to compete with businesses from around the world.

Currently, EU workers make up 15% of the UK games industry’s workforce, while 5% come from countries outside the EU. The ability to retain these workers and recruit more talent is essential for the industry, as TIGA aims to expand the number of games studios from 688 to 1,200 by 2022.

While the ability to attract global talent is essential, TIGA says that it strongly supports educating, developing and nurturing homegrown talent. By accrediting high quality video game courses and working closely with universities, TIGA ensures that UK graduates have the right skills and can enjoy long careers in the industry.

The UK video games industry has a long track record of investing in skills. TIGA published research in January 2016, which showed that 80% of games businesses provide on the job training. Meanwhile, 38% provide formal training courses, both in-house and external. To read TIGA’s press release in full, click here.