Grant aid to be made available to freelancers

FREELANCERS in Wales working in the cultural and creative sectors can apply for a £2,500 grant.

Furlough was able to keep thousands of people in work through the first wave of the crisis but some freelancers were unable to access help.

The fund will open for applications on Monday, October 8 and will run over two phases. Individuals can apply for a £2,500 grant and are asked to check their eligibility before the application process opens by visiting the Eligibility Checker for the Cultural Recovery Fund.

The Welsh Government said further information on the scheme including guidance and a set of frequently asked questions will be made available before the Fund launches. The fund will be open to freelancers in the creative industries and heritage areas whose work has direct creative/cultural outcomes.

Sian Gale from Bectu Cymru, the union representing behind the scenes workers in the creative industries., said: “The last six months have been particularly hard for those working across the creative sector, many have been unable to access the UKs Job Retention Scheme or the Self Employment Income Support Scheme so this funding is an absolute lifeline for our members in Wales.

“Although the TV and film industry is gradually getting back to work this is not the case for creatives working in theatres and live events who have helped make the creative industries one of the most economically and culturally successful sectors in Wales and have a huge positive impact on the wellbeing of our communities.”

Deputy minister for culture, sport and tourism, Lord ElisThomas, said: “The freelance sector is such an important part of the Welsh economy - with a significant number of freelancers working in the cultural and creative sectors. I’m delighted that we’re able to provide support - to sustain our freelancers during this difficult period and acknowledge the contribution made by these individuals to the economy, our communities and the cultural and creative sectors in Wales.”

Wales Freelance Taskforce, said: “Our recent study showed that over a third of freelancers in the cultural sector do not have sufficient income to live on. Live performance and event spaces were the first to close and will probably be the last to fully re-open. We welcome the Welsh Government’s acknowledgement of the value and contribution of the cultural sector’s freelance workforce in Wales.”