We know this is going to be a difficult time for our industry, particularly for workers and freelancers who will be hit by the closure of productions across the UK.
We can offer emotional and financial support, advice from industry experts and a reminder that even if you feel isolated, you’re not alone.
Financial Support
We try to be there for everyone working behind the scenes. Here’s how we’re helping financially.
It’s important to try to stay connected and support each other at the moment. Shared activities, trying something new or getting creative can help us to stay in touch and take our minds off things. That’s why if you have an idea that could help your friends and colleagues in the industry connect or learn during the crisis, you can apply for a small Community Grant of £150 – £250, up to a maximum of £1,000, to cover set-up costs and expenses.
COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund
The Film and TV COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund has been created in partnership with the BFI. We’re able to provide one-off grants from £500 to £2,500 to active workers in film, TV and cinema that aren’t eligible for SEISS (or are eligible but expect less than £800 per month in support) and facing financial difficulty as a result of the Covid-19 crisis. Please note, applications will be assessed based on need, not when we receive them.
Applications to this Fund are currently closed.
COVID-19 Repayable Grant Scheme
The COVID-19 Repayable Grants Scheme has been created for self-employed film, TV and cinema workers who are eligible for the Government’s Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (‘SEISS’). The grants are designed to provide cashflow support until payments through the SEISS are made in June and recipients are asked to repay the grants once they have received their back-dated Government support.
Applications to this Fund are currently closed
Advice and Guidance
We’ve pulled together the latest industry advice to help you get through this time.
It’s important to try to stay healthy, even in isolation.
Mental health community
We’re giving you access to an online community, free and accessible to everyone who works behind the scenes in film, TV and cinema.
Available 24/7, this platform, known as Big White Wall, is a safe space where you can talk openly and anonymously, access guided self-help courses on managing a range of mental health difficulties such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, panic and grief and use self-development resources including those on problem-solving and assertiveness training.
