YouTube Reports UK Creator Economy Generates £2 Billion, Seeks Government Recognition

YouTube, alongside research firm Public First, released a report highlighting the UK creator economy's substantial contribution of over £2 billion to GDP and support for more than 45,000 jobs, but also revealing significant barriers to sector growth due to a lack of recognition and support. Nearly 10,000 UK-based creators participated in the consultation, with many reporting insufficient access to training, skills development, business loans, and capital, alongside feelings of being undervalued by both the government and the broader creative industries. YouTube is urging the UK government to formally recognize content creators as a profession, proposing policy measures such as appointing a dedicated minister for creators, ensuring creator representation on industry councils, and creating accreditation systems for modular training. Prominent creators like Amelia Dimoldenberg and Max Klymenko advocate for better pathways and government support to help young creators develop their skills and resources. Despite these challenges, government officials acknowledge creators’ economic importance and have expressed support through initiatives like the Creative Industries Sector Plan. The report underscores a pressing need for institutional changes to align the recognition and resources available to digital creators with their cultural and economic impact in the UK.