Firstly following the new regulations that came in in 2003, no agency can now charge up front fees unless they provide a precise service equivalent and commensurate with the fee level. So you cannot be charged £35 simply for filling in a registration form as that is out of proportion. You cannot be charged £50 for a photo unless the agent can justify that cost. I have to say that the effect of this new law is not as dramatic as we had hoped, as there are some agencies still working just within it but they test it all the time. If you want to be on the safe side, don't agree to pay anything up front.
Secondly if you have been charged and have had no service report the agent to the DTI Agency Standards Inspectorate. They have a series of Inspectors with very extensive powers all over the country. They are on 0845 955 5105. They will act on information.
You should also know that an agency called South Wales Casting has recently advertised from a PO Box number in Ferndale. No phone number so really gives you confidence that it's kosher doesn't it?
The fact is that there are too many agencies already in the area. I've never yet heard of anyone retiring to the sun on the proceeds but I have heard and seen quite a few bite the dust
This was taken from www.theatre-wales.co.uk thought it might be of interest to any one who is thinking of paying to join an agency.
thanks Dazzler,
it is always useful to learn this kind of stuff.
Alexia
17 years ago
3
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