YouTube Stars Boost UK Economy by £2.2bn and Spark New Creator Revolution!

In 2024, YouTube content creators made a big impact on the UK economy, contributing £2. 2 billion and supporting 45,000 jobs, according to a report by Oxford Economics. This news comes as a new all-party parliamentary group is being formed to represent UK creators and influencers. Feryal Clark, a Labour MP and co-chair of the group, called these creators 'trailblazers of a new creative revolution' and said they have been 'undervalued in Westminster for too long. '

One of the UK's most successful YouTube creators is Lilly Sabri, who has nearly six and a half million followers and shares fitness videos. Lilly welcomed the research and the new parliamentary group, saying that for years people have questioned whether being a content creator is a real job. She started making videos eight years ago and has since launched two businesses. Lilly explained that her physiotherapy degree is important to her work, but without YouTube, she would not have been able to start her businesses or employ as many people.

The new parliamentary group, while informal and without official power, can provide valuable insights to policymakers. For many creators, this group is a sign that their work is finally being recognized. They face challenges such as getting access to training, finding studio spaces, and securing film permits. Feryal Clark said the group will help remove barriers that hold back talent and make sure Britain leads the world in creativity and innovation.

Some of the biggest YouTubers in the world are British, including DanTDM and the Sidemen, who have millions of subscribers. Joseph Garrett, known as Stampy, has 10 million subscribers and is famous for his Minecraft videos. Stampy said that creators have traditionally relied on advertisers and sponsors for income, but it was harder to earn as much as those in traditional media. Online creators needed far more views to make the same money as TV shows. However, Stampy noted that things are starting to change, with streaming platforms now paying more attention to viewer engagement.

Brandon B, who has 16 million subscribers and is known for his short-form visual effects videos, said the industry needs government support to reach the next level. He also has millions of followers on TikTok and Instagram. Brandon explained that even with a large following, he has struggled with UK rules for things like filming permits, which can be complicated. He wants the government to help creators grow their businesses and make it easier to reach global audiences.

This is not the first time that content creators and influencers have been recognized by politicians. Recently, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer invited 90 influencers to a reception at 10 Downing Street, and in the US, the White House has started including creators in press briefings alongside traditional journalists. These changes show that online creators are becoming more important in both politics and business, and their influence is growing.