EQUITY has launched a new comedians’ charter, which aims to improve the safety and working conditions of those making a living in the sector. 

Developed by the comedians’ network of the creative practitioners’ union, the document was unveiled at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, which opened last Friday.

The Scottish capital’s New Town Theatre is the first venue to have signed up to the charter, which will ensure “pay transparency, a safe working environment, late night safety and anti-harassment and discrimination policies,” Equity said. 

The union’s Rob Lugg called for it to become industry standard, stressing: “By coming together and acting collectively through their union, comedians have the chance to push for real change.

“However, the charter is only one part of our strategy to improve [their] working conditions.

“As the cost-of-living spirals out of control, adding to the enormous pre-existing pressures of accommodation and transport costs at festivals like the Edinburgh Fringe, the time to act is now.”

The charter includes “the condemnation of any performance conducted at the artist’s expense on behalf of someone else” and a call for “anti-harassment and discrimination policies to be clearly visible in venues” and online for both performers and audiences.

It also details points relating to venue facilities and travel options for comedians.

“Our members will also need the support of audiences by making sure that they only attend comedy gigs that carry the Comedians’ Charter Mark, once it is rolled out,” said Mr Lugg. 

Equity has more than 47,000 members, including comedians, actors, singers, dancers, designers and directors.