The creative sector has been hit hard by the COVID-19 crisis. Live events cancelled. Exhibitions closed. Classes and workshops moving online.
There is an amazing community of people actively sharing resources and providing activities for people who are isolated or who have children at home, but behind this is an alarming financial reality for many creatives. Today the government will announce their financial support for the self-employed and alongside this, here is a round up of other sources of advice and support for the creative sector.
Arts Council England
Arts Council England have announced a £160 million support package for individual artists and for organisations who are currently funded to deliver projects or receive regular funding. Full details will be announced on 30 March.
Worthing Community Chest
Local charity Worthing Community Chest raises funds from the clothing banks around the town and gives grants to local good causes. They are now offering quick and easy grants of up to £250 to help local groups through this crisis.
Wired Sussex
Wired Sussex have set up a Slack channel for members and non-members which is full of information and offers of support such as getting started with e-commerce or legal advice. Wired Sussex also have a live jobs board and are collecting information to lobby the government.
Adur & Worthing Council
Support and advice for businesses and information about local arrangements during the coronavirus can all be accessed in one place on the council’s website. The business support includes up-to-date information on grants, loans and deferred payment schemes.
Art House Worthing
Established recently just off Warwick Street, Art House Worthing is one of the many new creative ventures popping up around Worthing. Amelie Baer Collyer runs classes and workshops for young and old and this Friday launches her own YouTube channel to make these available to a wider audience, and she has also put together some crafty survival kits. You can have some fun and support a local business by tuning in!
Stuff still matters in Worthing.
Our local listing magazine Here & Now can be enjoyed online, and although events have been cancelled it is still full of articles to enjoy, and adverts for local services. Look out for the latest issue and blog posts from tomorrow!
