A report from the Film and TV Charity has found 93 per cent of the industry’s freelancers are no longer working due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
The online survey conducted by charity was completed by 1,895 people between 31st March and 3rd April 2020.
It also found 74 per cent of respondents said they do not expect to receive any support since they are either ineligible for the Self-employment Income Support Scheme or have not been furloughed as PAYE freelancers under the Job Retention Scheme.
The figures come as the Covid-19 Film and TV Emergency Relief Fund officially launches. It aims to provide support to active workers and freelancers who have been hit hardest by the closure of productions across the UK.
It launches with initial donations totalling £2.5 million. One-off grants of between £500 and £2,500 will be awarded based on need.
Alex Pumfrey, CEO of The Film and TV Charity, said: “Unprecedented times call for an exceptional response. The Covid-19 Film and TV Emergency Relief Fund is unique, time-limited and designed to provide financial support where the need is most acute. Our systems will highlight applicants who are experiencing particular distress and our experienced team will respond to those red flags with personal follow-up calls.”
Applications for the one-off grants can be made via The Film and TV Charity’s website at https://filmtvcharity.org.uk/covid-19-help-advice/covid-19-relief-fund
