skip to main content

Second Phase of Welsh Freelancer Fund to Open for Applications

Members are encouraged to use the eligibility check and prepare their evidence in advance of the second phase of the Welsh Freelancer Fund opening at 10:00 am on Monday 19 October.

Published: 15 October 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
Photograh of a castle turret with a small Welsh flag left flying on top.
We would strongly recommend applying as soon as possible when the Fund opens at 10:00 am on Monday 19 October. Photo credit: Shutterstock

Following the large response to phase one of the fund, members are encouraged to take steps to ensure that they are able to complete their application for the second phase quickly and smoothly. They can do this by using the eligibility checker on Business Wales’ website, and preparing their evidence in advance.

If you’ve got any sort of access issue or disability that means you have difficulty completing the form contact Business Wales asap on 03000 6 03000 so you can get support.

Additional guidance documents are now live on Business Wales website, including an Easy Read version.

Key guidance on applying

We previously hosted a meeting for members with Gerwyn Evans from Welsh Government on the fund, some of takeaways included:

  • You need to submit all the information required or your application may be rejected.
  • The Fund provides for a fixed grant of £2,500 rather than funding directly linked to loss of earnings.
  • It’s important to note that you need to provide proof of work between April 2019 and July 2020 AND/OR proof of work cancelled between April 2020 and March 2021. There are examples of what could be provided as proof of work or cancelled work in the guidance document, and we would advise members to provide evidence across their full portfolio of work (e.g. for teaching and performing work), and to provide a reference/referee in the absence of detailed evidence or as a backup option.
  • You do not have to sign up to the Freelancer Pledge in order to receive funding.

We do recommend you read Business Wales detailed guidance and FAQs before applying.

Take action now

Join our urgent call to the Government to do more, in order to safeguard the future of the UK’s music culture and industry – ask your MP to make your voice heard in Parliament.

You can use our template letter if you’re not sure what to say. Remember to include how you are affected too – personal stories make all the difference.

Write to your MP now.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

People marching across a village with thatched roofs, holding hand made union banners.

Celebrate Union Pride with the MU at Tolpuddle 2025

Members are invited to join us at this year’s Tolpuddle Martyrs Festival - the biggest celebration of the trade union movement in the Southwest - taking place 18 to 20 July in the beautiful Dorset village of Tolpuddle.

Published: 13 June 2025

Read more about Celebrate Union Pride with the MU at Tolpuddle 2025
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves on stage making a speech at the Labour Party Conference in 2023.

Increased Money for the Creative Industries in Government Spending Review

Yesterday Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves set out her Comprehensive Spending Review. Having lobbied the Government for additional money for music, it was positive to see the Government announce a "significant increase in funding for the creative industries" as a key “growth sector".

Published: 12 June 2025

Read more about Increased Money for the Creative Industries in Government Spending Review
Last year's parade, hundreds of people walking down the narrow historic main street, holding large colourful banners and balloons.

March With the MU at Durham Miners’ Gala 2025

Members are invited to join us on Saturday 12 July for the Durham Miners’ Gala – the world’s biggest celebration of trade union values, community spirit, and working-class life.

Published: 12 June 2025

Read more about March With the MU at Durham Miners’ Gala 2025