Bectu welcomes funding for freelancer creatives, but significant gaps of support remain

The Government’s announcement of funding via Arts Council England for freelancers in the creative industries affected by the pandemic is a step in the right direction and will assist creatives in the face of a new Covid crisis. However, the government has not extended this funding to all sectors in the creative industries, highlighting the need for sector specific support, and it does not provide a long-term, flexible solution.

Head of Bectu Philippa Childs said: “We welcome the news, particularly the re-opening of the Theatre Artists Fund.

“However, there are significant gaps – live events workers are noticeably missing from these funding announcements and we need a sector specific scheme that can flex as needed to changing restrictions.

“Theatres and live events venues remain at crisis point and while this funding will no doubt ease the anxiety of many, the Government needs to step up to ensure no theatre or live events worker falls through the cracks this Christmas, and beyond.”