The recent unprecedented Covid 19 outbreak and subsequent lockdown has presented many unique challenges to everyone.
As a board member of AWUK as well as an MD of a VFX company I’ve been wading through the ever-evolving policies and information with everyone else and thought it might be helpful to gather up some resources that have reliable information to try to help navigate the way through.
I’ve broken it out into sections.
Furlough
Until a few weeks ago I had no idea what furlough was. Also known as The Government Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, gov.co.uk describes it as:
“If you and your employer both agree, your employer might be able to keep you on the payroll if they’re unable to operate or have no work for you to do because of coronavirus (COVID-19). This is known as being ‘on furlough’. Your employer could pay 80% of your regular wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, up to a monthly cap of £2,500.
You’ll still be paid by your employer and pay taxes from your income. You cannot undertake work for your employer while on furlough.”
Employees
Check if you could be eligible for furlough here.
Employers
If you run a business, find out how to claim furlough support here.
Moore Kingston Smith has also compiled some really useful guidance for business owners into a Coronavirus Hub.
Freelancers
If you’re freelance you’re not eligible for furlough, but might be eligible for a grant that offers similar support if you meet certain criteria.
Find out if you meet the criteria here.
The BFI have set up a new COVID-19 Film and TV Emergency Relief Fund with the Film & TV Charity and a £1m donation from Netflix. The new fund will provide emergency short-term relief to active workers and freelancers in the UK who have been directly affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
Other Helpful Resources
UK Screen Alliance and Animation UK have curated some really helpful information on their website which is being updated regularly.
They are also actively lobbying the government on behalf of our industries.
Support
The Film + TV Charity offers a 24/7 support line which is free and confidential. You can contact them on 0800 054 0000 or visit the website to access their live chat service.
HMRC has also set up a phone helpline to support businesses and self-employed people who are concerned about not being able to pay their tax due to coronavirus (Covid-19). The helpline allows any business or self-employed individual who is concerned to get practical help and advice. You can call them on 0800 0159 559.
I hope some of these resources are helpful.
There’s a lot going on.
Many people are juggling homeschooling and childcare or other caring responsibilities with home working – often with multiple people working at home. On top of this, we all have people we’re worried about due to their age, health or occupation. Try to find time for you in amongst all of this.
Make use of the hour a day we’re allowed to exercise outside or lock yourself away for 20 minutes of yoga (try Yoga with Adriene – free and lovely) or book reading or a bath!
Try to keep in touch with your peers and colleagues. It’s incredibly helpful to know we’re all in this together.
Lucy
by Lucy Cooper – non-executive director of AWUK and MD of Union
Find out more about our board and volunteers here.
Disclaimer: Please note this blog is a summary signposting resources. AWUK are not experts and cannot offer advice.
