“The additional £3.5m for the Freelancer Fund is particularly welcome so that more individuals can benefit from these grants,” photo credit: Shutterstock
The Welsh Government’s new investment takes the total available through the Cultural Recovery Fund to £63.7m (including £10.5m for the Freelancer Fund), more than the £59m of UK Government funding triggered by the Cultural Recovery Fund in England.
The third phase of the Freelancer Fund is due to open soon
The new funding will include an additional £3.5m for a third phase of the Freelancer Fund, due to open at 10:00 am on Monday 23 November.
We will update members as soon as new guidance is available, and will encourage anyone who hasn’t yet received a Freelancer Fund grant to review that guidance and prepare any necessary information in advance, in order to submit an application as soon as possible on 23 November.
Welcome news after clear demand and discussion
Our Regional Organiser for Wales and South West England, Andy Warnock responded to the news:
“I’m very pleased that the Welsh Government is investing more money in the Cultural Recovery Fund given the clear demand for support, and following our discussions over the last few weeks.
“The additional £3.5m for the Freelancer Fund is particularly welcome so that more individuals can benefit from these grants, given the ongoing issue with the UK Government’s support schemes that we still urge the Chancellor to resolve.
“We know that this investment doesn’t solve all the problems facing our members, and we’re continuing to discuss funding, guidance, and the process of reopening the creative industries with Welsh Government.
“I’m grateful to them for their continuing engagement with trade unions, as well as to our colleagues at BECTU, Equity, WGGB, and Wales TUC for their help and support.”
Take action now
Whilst the additional funding from the Welsh Government is welcome news, it’s vital that the UK Government takes steps to protect the musicians who fall through the gaps in their support schemes
Take action now and join our urgent call to the Government to do more – 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.