If you’re struggling during lockdown there is information and support out there:
There is Up-to £10,000 available to composers who are already making a significant cultural contribution in the UK via the PRS Foundation in partnership with Jerwood Arts - Composers' Fund. Go to artscouncil-ni.org for more information
For information on the Help Musicians Hardship Fund, go to www.musiciansunion.org.uk/hardshipfund
*This programme is temporarily closed until further notice* Artists Emergency Programe - support individual artists, creative practitioners and performers. Go to artscouncil-ni.org
For the UK governments latest advice, support and information on covid 19, as well and information and support for issues covered across the BBC, visit bbc.co.uk/actionline.
PRS Emergency Relief Fund - www.prsformusic.com/c/emergency-relief-fund
British Council: Funding and other resources for the music industry - https://bit.ly/2yolnpS
Start Together Studio in Belfast, have an extensive list of support available here, https://bit.ly/2Wp2fjx.
Help Musicians Coronavirus Hardship Fund
Who can apply?
• Performers, composers/creators, those directly involved in the production of music, or those who work in a role where the main qualification is a high level of musical training
• Individuals who are self-employed or currently unemployed
How much is available?
• A one-off payment of £500 per person
How do I apply?
• Via an online form. More information is available here.
Irish Music Industry COVID Relief Fund
Who can apply?
• Irish (resident in Ireland or an Irish national) music creators, including songwriters, composers, performers, session musicians and arrangers
How much is available?
• A one-off emergency relief payment of up to €750 EUR
How do I apply?
• Via an online application form. More information is available here.
NI Creative Support Fund
Who can apply?
• Artists Emergency Programme – this is open to musicians, performers and creative practitioners. Applications must demonstrate that funds will be used for the creation of works/projects that will support future public engagement.
How much is available?
• Artists Emergency Programme – up to £5,000 per applicant
How do I apply?
• Artists Emergency Programme – this requires an Expression of Interest form, a CV, a budget, and proof of previous experience of delivering work for the public benefit. More information is available here.
The Musicians’ Union Hardship Fund
Who can apply?
• UK residents who are members of the Musicians’ Union or joint members of the Musicians’ Union and the National Education Union (NEU)
How much is available?
• A one-off grant of £200 per person
How do I apply?
• Via an application form on the Musicians’ Union website. More information is available here.
PRS Foundation Sustaining Creativity Fund
Who can apply?
• UK music creators experiencing hardship form loss of work due to COVID-19
• The grant is to help music creators continue to create exceptional new music – this is not a hardship fund
How much is available?
• Grants of £750 per person
How do I apply?
• Read the guidance available and complete the online application form. More information is available here.
Small Business Grant Scheme
Who can apply?
• Small businesses that already pay reduced business rates because of Small Business Rate Relief (SBRR)
How much is available?
• A one-off grant of £10,000
How do I apply?
• Via the NI Department for the Economy website. More information is available here.
• Music and You have created a number of resources to help us look after our wellbeing, including stress, anxiety and our mental health, during these times.
Meditation Courses
• The Musicians’ Union is offering free online medication sessions to support the wellbeing of the music community during the pandemic.
Music Minds Matter
• A free, confidential, around the clock helpline run by Help Musicians for the entire music industry.
Music Support Helpline
• A helpline for anyone in the music industry suffering from alcoholism, addiction, emotional or mental health issues.
• A free, confidential, around the clock helpline run by Help Musicians for the entire music industry.
Always reach out and ask for help if you need it. There is support out there.
