skip to main content

Third 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 23 November.

Published: 20 November 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
Photograph of a young child wearing a facemask, sat at a keyboard.
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 the previous two phases 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 accident cover, health schemes, travel insurance and car insurance add-ons through the Musicians’ Union.

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

Naomi Pohl and other trade union leaders outside government buildings in London.

MU General Secretary Meets the Prime Minister

This week the MU met with important members of Labour’s new Government, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer, to discuss key topics such as music education, EU touring and workers' rights.

Published: 25 July 2024

Read more about MU General Secretary Meets the Prime Minister