- Interviews
Skiddle’s Duncan King Reflects on Industry Well-being Before Report Release
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By Dale Grogan
- 06 May 2025
- 7 min read
Next Monday (12th May) marks the beginning of Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, an annual campaign to promote positive mental health while tackling stigma and encouraging open conversations about mental well-being. In conjunction with this year’s campaign, the theme of which is “community”, we’ll be releasing the findings of a year-long mental health survey spotlighting the experiences of the behind-the-scenes event community – from promoters and venue managers to production crew and freelancers.
Launched back in April 2024, this latest mental health study was specifically designed and distributed to gain insight into the often overlooked realities of working in live events, to help us and our partners – the likes of Music Minds Matter, Help Musicians, Headstock, Thrive At Night, Getahead, the Night Time Industries Association, the Association of Electronic Music, the Association of Independent Festivals and Blue Rhythm – understand the needs of those working in the sector to offer better and more timely resources.
To mark the release of the report, due on Monday 12th May, we caught up with our Head of Festivals & Partnerships, Duncan King, to shed more light on the study and it’s importance, what the findings reveal, and how Skiddle plans to turn insights into action.
Tell us more about Skiddle’s decision to conduct such a study?
“As an independent business that partners closely with tens of thousands of independent promoters, the well-being of our community is a top priority.
“Without happy, healthy promoters, the grassroots music industry would cease to exist. In 2018, Skiddle became the first ticketing platform to launch a dedicated mental health survey, highlighting our long-standing commitment to the issue. Following the profound impact of the pandemic on the live events industry, we felt it was crucial to revisit this conversation and assess how those working in the sector are coping today. This latest survey reflects our ongoing dedication to supporting the mental health of promoters, event organisers, and everyone behind the scenes.”
Why is it important for Skiddle to be a voice for mental health in the industry?
“Working with more independent promoters and venues than any other ticketing platform in the UK, we understand the unique challenges they face. Many operate with limited resources, time, and support, often without access to healthcare, HR, or mental health services tailored to the live events industry. As a company deeply embedded in this community, we see it as our responsibility to go beyond ticketing. We’re committed to being a voice for positive change and to championing the mental wellbeing of the people who make live events possible.”
“At Skiddle, we believe the success of the live events industry depends not just on ticket sales, but on the well-being of the people who bring these experiences to life.”
Duncan King, Head of Festivals & Partnerships at Skiddle
What do Skiddle hope to achieve by sharing the results?
“By sharing the results of our mental health survey, we aim to drive lasting and meaningful change across the UK’s independent music industry. We want to shine a light on the challenges our community is facing, raise awareness of mental health issues, and ensure those in need know where and how to access the right support. Our goal is to open up conversations, influence industry standards, and contribute to a more compassionate and sustainable future for everyone working behind the scenes.”
How will Skiddle deliver further mental health support to promoters and industry staff?
“Skiddle is committed to turning insights into action. In partnership with Music Minds Matter, we’ll be developing a range of tailored resources to support independent promoters and venue teams. This includes practical assets like venue packs for green rooms and staff areas, access to mental health training, and clear pathways to professional support services. Our aim is to equip the people behind live events with the tools they need to prioritise wellbeing, both for themselves and their teams.”
“At Skiddle, we believe the success of the live events industry depends not just on ticket sales, but on the well-being of the people who bring these experiences to life. By continuing to listen, collaborate, and advocate for mental health, we hope to help build a more resilient and compassionate industry, one where support is accessible, conversations are open, and no one has to face challenges alone.”
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Got a question you need an answer to?
Give us a call on 03333010301 or ask us a question over on the Skiddle Promoter Twitter account by clicking or tapping on the button below. Alternatively, you can also find a list of our most frequently asked questions over at https://help.promotioncentre.co.uk
