The State of the Junior is a national survey led by The Junior, capturing the real, lived experiences of Junior creatives across the UK. It collects anonymous data to better understand what it’s really like to start and grow a creative career today, covering everything from pay, access and progression to mental health, workplace culture and regional opportunity.
This survey is for anyone currently working at a Junior level in the UK creative industry. That includes freelancers, full-time or part-time employees, whether in-house or at an agency. If you're early in your career, we want to hear from you.
We believe the best way to create meaningful change is to understand what’s really happening. Too many conversations about Junior talent are based on assumptions. This survey turns lived experience into collective insight. The data we gather will be used to push for better support, better pay, and more inclusive opportunities across the industry.
The survey is led by The Junior — an organisation created by and for Junior creatives, working to support emerging talent across the creative industries. We run programmes, campaigns and resources to ensure Junior creatives can not only get into the industry, but stay and thrive in it.
The survey covers a wide range of topics, including:
Yes. All responses are anonymous. We don’t ask for names or identifying information unless you choose to provide contact details at the end to stay in the loop. If you do, that data is stored separately.
Around 10–15 minutes.
Once the survey closes in June 2025, we’ll analyse the responses and publish a report later in the year. The data will be shared publicly and used to inform our own work and campaigns, as well as made available to organisations who want to build better pathways for Junior talent.
Yes. We’ll be sharing a public report that organisations, agencies, educators and decision-makers can use to support their work. We’re also open to exploring partnerships with those who want to dig deeper into the findings or support the work moving forward.
We’re looking to connect with organisations who are passionate about Junior talent. You can support the survey by sharing it with your networks, collaborating on content, or getting involved in the next stage of the project. If you're interested in being part of this, drop us a line at weare@the-junior.com.
We define Junior as early-career creatives who are typically in their first roles in the industry, often with 0–3 years of experience. This includes those with Junior, Assistant or Entry-Level job titles across any creative discipline.
No. This is a UK-wide survey. We’re especially interested in hearing from those working outside major creative hubs, as location is a key theme in the survey.
Not at all. Whether you're in design, advertising, fashion, production, strategy, writing, or something more niche, your experience is valid and important to this research.
If you're freelancing or have recently been employed in a Junior creative role, your input still matters. We're capturing the reality of the journey, not just people currently in jobs.
Yes. The survey is mobile-friendly and can be completed on any device.
Yes. We provide a separate, optional form at the end where you can leave your email address if you'd like to receive updates. This is stored separately from your responses.
Yes. The findings will be shared in a published report and potentially through events or discussions, all free to access.
It will be used to inform industry recommendations, shape our programmes, and support partners who are committed to improving Junior talent pathways. Anonymised insights may be shared in presentations, talks or press.
Absolutely. Please do. The more responses we get, the clearer the picture becomes. You can share it with your network, team, students, or community.
Visit www.the-junior.com or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn and Threads at @thejunioruk.
Get in touch: weare@the-junior.com
