ITC’s advice service has been very well-used throughout 2025, with over 2000 calls from members. Logging the use of our service has given us a great insight into changes and frequent issues arising across the sector. ITC’s advice service is completely confidential, so we can’t share any actual cases, but we thought members might find it helpful get a sense of how the service is being used and some of the trends we have been noticing.

First of all, we have been pleased to find that more boards have been accessing the service. When things go badly wrong in an organisation, the board is accountable and needs to take action. ITC exists to support the company, and when the buck stops with the board, it is important for them to know that they can use ITC. There has been an increase in grievances,  complaints and disputes in relation to senior leaders. This is particularly where boards need advice in order to act fairly and manage their legal responsibilities. ITC has carried out investigations and resolved disputes for several companies this year. More boards have been consulting us on strategic and governance issues, too, and we have facilitated several board away days for members.

Just under 80%  of our calls have been employment-related,  including: freelancer/employee confusion, performance management & capability, misconduct & disciplinary, parental leave, long-term sickness, disability discrimination, reasonable adjustment, access to work, flexible working, immigration, dignity at work, compassionate leave, and safeguarding. Members who have been through the traumatic experience of dealing with disciplinary, grievance and dismissal processes may be reassured to discover that they are not alone. We have seen a continuing increase in employment-related disputes, and though we have been able to resolve most of these successfully, we do not underestimate the toll this takes on managers. We are also seeing an increase in enquiries relating to managing mental health and neurodiversity well in the workplace.

Sadly, we have seen a few companies having to take tough decisions in relation to restructuring and redundancies. We have been able to assist members in dealing with these situations sensitively and humanely. We have also had to support a few companies in winding up and insolvency this year.

Use of our Fair-Work Approved union agreements continues to increase, with more members negotiating reasonable variations to maintain their use and enable a diverse range of activities. Most things are possible on the ITC/Union agreements, provided the intention is to treat people fairly.

Recruitment continues to be difficult for many roles in the sector (especially stage management, technical, financial and senior management). Companies are having to re-advertise several times and consider interim arrangements.

We have seen an increased number of companies in dispute with venues over late payment and issues with VAT. 

We are best able to help members if they get in touch early, and there is no limit to how often you can contact the ITC advice service. Most importantly, please provide us with a contact number to respond to you on, as we will need to ask you lots of questions to get to the root of the problem.