The Network of Women in Events (NOWIE) has launched the second edition of its industry-wide survey into the experiences of women working across events, live entertainment, music and festivals.
The research follows findings from NOWIE’s first survey, which found that around one in four women had experienced sexual assault linked to their work in the sector. Respondents also cited barriers to reporting incidents, including fears of losing future work, freelance employment arrangements and concerns about career repercussions.
NOWIE is aiming for more than 1,000 responses in 2026, which would make it one of the largest studies of its kind focused on workplace culture and safety in the events industry.
The survey will examine sexual harassment and assault, reporting procedures, employer accountability, safeguarding standards, freelance and touring work, career progression and wider workplace culture.
The initiative comes as the UK events sector, estimated to be worth £60bn, faces increasing scrutiny around safeguarding and duty of care.
Cat Kevern, managing director of NOWIE, said: “This research is about turning lived experiences into action.
“The events industry is an incredible space to work in, but the findings from our previous survey made it clear that too many women are still navigating unsafe environments, inconsistent reporting structures and a lack of accountability. We believe meaningful change starts with robust data, honest conversations and industry-wide responsibility.”
NOWIE said it is aligning the project with national violence against women and girls recommendations and plans to take its findings to Parliament later this year.
Jo Platt MP, who is supporting the survey, said: “This research shines a vital light on the lived experiences of women working across the events industry, an essential but often under-recognised part of the UK economy.”
The survey opened on 17 June and will run until August, with findings and recommendations due in September.
