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March 2020

BECTU’s urgent online gathering – April 1st

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BECTU’s urgent online gathering for crew in Post Production and Facilities to discuss COVID-19 & the Chancellor’s Freelance package

Please join BECTU on Wednesday 1st of April for The Rough Assembly’s COVID-19 Big Gathering from 7.30pm onwards. Register here.

 

BECTU and the Post Production and Facilities branch committee welcome the recent financial package for the self-employed outlined by the Chancellor, but it doesn’t go far enough, and has left many members with very little or no support at all.

Fine print, further measures and an earlier implementation date is desperately needed with immediate effect, and we continue to lobby the government on members/crew’s behalf in attaining these details and date movements. In the meantime, we are in a position to give you support and insight into the following topics:

– What does the self-employed package mean and what does it currently entail?

– What help is available to me based on my employment/engagement status?

– What are BECTU doing to help me?

– What industry support is available to me?

– What will happen to Britain’s Film & TV Industry?

Speakers include:

Tony Lennon (BECTU Freelance research officer)

Riccardo Bacigalupo (Editor & Branch Secretary)

Paul Evans (BECTU Assistant National Secretary)

Meredith Leece (Editor & Branch co-Chair)

Nia Hughes (Post Production and Facilities branch Organising Official)

Dan Roberts (Editor & committee member)

This meeting will be hosted on Zoom and is open to BECTU members and non-members. You do not need a Zoom account to join the meeting, but you will need a device which has microphone and video capabilities. The details are as follows:

https://zoom.us/j/6200206512

Meeting ID: 620 020 6512

 

Join the conversation at 7.30pm sharp on Weds, April 1st. Register here.

 

Source: www.bectu.org.uk

 

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Free Creative Industries Federation Membership for six months

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Here is a message from The Creative Industries Federation Membership, who are offering free membership for six months:

It’s clear that our creativity and problem-solving abilities are going to be substantially affected by the ongoing Coronavirus emergency. This is a rapidly evolving, unprecedented situation, and we’ve been listening carefully to your concerns.

Now, it is more important than ever to connect our sectors and speak with one unified for the creative industries to ensure you and our wider creative community are supported during this difficult period.

We are only as strong as our membership and we need creatives from across the country to join us at this time of crisis for the sector. We are encouraging freelancers and microbusinesses – who will be some of the hardest hit –  to join us as a Creative Industries Federation Member free of charge for the next six months, so we can support you with relevant news and updates whilst you navigate the challenges of the ongoing Coronavirus emergency.

Please click here to set up your free, six-month Federation membership. 

MEMBERSHIP IS RIGHT FOR YOU IF…
  • You want to get behind our mission to unlock the power of creativity and realise our country’s potential.

  • You want your work to play an important role in the future of the creative industries.

  • You know that unity is strength and collaboration is the key to change.

 

WHAT YOU GET
  • A chance to sign the Creative Industries Charter. By using our logo, you’ll demonstrate to the people you work with that you’re committed to creative excellence and you protect your interests.

  • Your voice, heard. We advocate for our members at the highest level in government. We protect your interests, rates and rights, and we make sure our sector is at the heart of decision-making.

  • A network of the most inspiring creative talent in the UK. You’ll become a part of the success story that’s powering our economy.

  • A UK-wide programme of events and workshops. You’ll get free or discounted tickets to thought leadership, coaching and networking events – everything from low-key meet-ups to conferences and webinars.

  • A profile boost. Getting you and your work in front of our brilliant network of freelancers, creative businesses and decision makers.

  • Access to talent. Gain a competitive advantage through access to the best creative sector businesses and talent from across the UK

  • Use of our directory and members-only jobs boards. Through exclusive access, you’ll meet even more creative talent.

  • The latest industry insights. We’ll keep you in the loop with news, views and advice from across the sector.

  • Resources for business and personal growth. You’ll have our market-leading content whenever you need it.

  • Access to funding opportunities. Regular updates on new ways to finance your work.

 

Creative Industries Federation memberships normally start from £80. Find out more from our Membership team.

 

Source: www.creativeindustriesfederation.com

 

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ICO offers free course for film Exhibitors

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The Independent Cinema Office’s guide to building audiences from the ground up is now free. Read their message below:

 

We know this is a difficult time. There’s a lot of uncertainty and it’s hard to know where to put your energies. We will need to do everything we can to make sure when our cinemas re-open that audiences are stronger than ever before.

We’ve recently launched our online course, REACH: Strategic Audience Development. It’s a complete guide to increasing audiences for mind-expanding cinema. It’s especially useful if you are looking to bring people who have historically been excluded or marginalised in independent cinemas: people of colour, D/deaf and disabled audiences and young audiences. You can take a look at what the course covers here.

Usually it’s £50 to access the hours of essential content, but we are offering this course for free to subscribers to our mailing list. We want to do what we can to help independent cinemas find their route to financial sustainability after this difficult time.

Just click through and complete the short form to get free access.

Click here to start the course.

 

Source: www.independentcinemaoffice.org.uk

 

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COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund Announced for Film/TV workers

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The BFI and The Film and TV Charity set up a new Covid-19 Film and TV Emergency Relief Fund with a £1m donation from Netflix

published 24 March 2020 by filmtvcharity.org.uk

 

The BFI and The Film and TV Charity have partnered to create a new industry-backed Covid-19 Film and TV Emergency Relief Fund to help support the creative community, which like many industries, has been devastated by the pandemic.

Established with a £1m donation from Netflix, the new Covid-19 Film and TV Emergency Relief Fund will be administered by The Film and TV Charity with support from the BFI. It will provide emergency short-term relief to the many thousands of active workers and freelancers who have been directly affected by the closure of productions across the UK.

Alex Pumfrey, CEO of The Film and TV Charity, said “The film and TV industry is now facing a huge threat. Many freelancers have seen their livelihoods disappear overnight. We’re entering a period of unprecedented isolation and worry for a workforce that we know from our research already suffers from poor mental health.

“Which is why I’m incredibly pleased that that Netflix and the BFI are working with us to kick-start this new COVID-19 Film and TV Emergency Relief Fund to support workers across the UK’s film and TV industry.”

Ben Roberts, BFI Chief Executive said ‘‘Freelance professionals are the backbone of our film and television industries, and we hope that everyone will work together to support those who have been hardest hit at this extraordinary time of need. Netflix’s early commitment to this fund is hugely welcomed and are asking other commercial industry partners to contribute, if they are able, and play their part in helping those most in need get through this crisis.”

Anne Mensah, Vice President, Original Series at Netflix said: “We’re proud to be working with the BFI and The Film and TV Charity to support the hardest hit workers in TV and film production. From electricians to carpenters, hair and makeup artists to drivers – and many more, UK crews have always been vital to Netflix’s success and now we want to help those freelancers who most need support in these unprecedented times.” 

The Film and TV Charity has supported people working behind the scenes in the film and TV industry for almost 100 years. Founded in the early days of cinema in 1924 with the generosity of entrepreneurs who understood the value of a well-supported workforce in an industry driven by people, the charity has huge experience in distributing hardship funds to those in need.

The Film and TV Charity is currently working on the precise eligibility criteria and level of individual funding but the fund will be open to those working in production, distribution and exhibition. To be the first to hear when the fund launches, applicants should register for the charity’s mailing list.

Those in immediate and urgent need should apply for support via The Film and TV Charity’s existing hardship fund, offering grants of up to £500 to provide stop-gap support. This hardship fund will sit alongside the new Film and TV COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund. Details on eligibility and how to apply.

The Film and TV Charity and BFI also recognise the significant mental health pressures arising as a result of COVID-19 and, in line with the charity’s existing Whole Picture Programme for better mental health, are developing new advice specifically tailored for our industry on how to stay mentally well at home and creating a new supportive community forum for freelancers. The Film and TV Charity already provides 24/7 mental health support to the industry, including counselling and legal advice, via the Film and TV Support Line on 0800 054 00 00.

The BFI is leading an industry wide Screen Sector Task Force that is looking at the wide-ranging impacts of Covid-19 on the whole industry and its workforce, as well as working closely with Government to ensure that all of the ramifications and impacts are considered. The BFI has up to date industry advice for freelancers and other areas of the sector.

Netflix’s donation is part of a broader announcement last week to set up a $100m fund for creatives whose jobs have been affected by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.  Most of the funds will go towards support for the hardest hit workers on Netflix’s own productions around the world and is in addition to the two week’s pay they already committed to the crew and cast on productions that have been suspended. Netflix’s donation to Covid-19 Film and TV Emergency Relief Fund and to other organisations around the world is to provide emergency relief to out-of-work crew and cast across the broader film and television industry in the countries where the entertainment company has a large production base.

 

Source: filmtvcharity.org.uk

 

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BBC calls for scripts about Self Isolation – Deadline March 30th

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BBC Writersroom believes in the power of stories and storytellers to keep us hopeful, entertained and to help us make sense of the world, particularly in such a strange and unprecedented time as the one we find ourselves in now.

That’s why they’re asking for original short-form scripts, between 5-10 minutes in length whose 2-4 characters now find themselves in isolation, but connecting via video conferencing. They may be friends, lovers, neighbours, colleagues, family or strangers. But they’re all alone together and using modern technology to stay connected.

These stories should take place throughout and via a conference call. Stories that show a moment of human interaction in an otherwise socially distanced world. Though of course, when it feels like the end of the world, the things we choose to say or the truths we reveal to one another may be the most surprising.

We want scripts that are compelling and hook us in. Ideas that have warmth and spirit, that astonish, amuse or enlighten us. They should be set now or in the near future.

We’ll select four of the best to be produced with professional actors and released on BBC platforms throughout April. The selected writers will each receive £300 for their script.

Deadline: Monday 30th March at 12 noon

 

Submit your script via our E-submissions system using this link

Read the full Terms and Conditions of Entry

Read our Privacy Notice 

 

Source: www.bbc.co.uk

 

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Film/TV production contingency plan during coronavirus

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Source: www.broadcastnow.co.uk

Read below for an outline of best practice for a coronavirus contingency plan, from Derek Drennan, founder of small indie advisory The Nest:

 

Productions across the UK are being put on hold for the foreseeable future. Some are pressing on without insurance and others are postponed, leaving small indies confused about what they should be doing on a day-to-day basis during this time of extreme uncertainty. Misinformation is rife and each production is being viewed on a case-by-case basis but there are a few ways by which small producers can mitigate the damage, and I have been advising them as such.

A speedy and solid coronavirus action plan is essential. Consider all eventualities and how far they could escalate. Teams should now ideally be working from home as per instructions from the experts on Monday.

During filming, a sensible approach would be to use skeleton teams as much as possible on set and on location . Succession planning is an important part of this.

Look at replacement measures for all team members and crew so that you always have someone who can step in during illness and quarantine – a highly-likely disruptor. Keep a list of people who can ‘step up’ to these roles – for example, camera ops could replace PDs .

Consider splitting production teams and separating them into smaller teams i.e. ‘Team A’ and ‘Team B’ who will work apart in different locations, meaning you always have a team who can carry on should one team “go down”.

Anyone who feels unwell should be forced to go home and rest for at least a week in quarantine as per advice. This may take some persuading – especially for those freelancers out there who insist they are fine in fear of losing work – but it needs to happen.

Producers and scriptwriters should be thinking of contingencies for key cast and locations that they can use as backups. Any key locations/studios should be pencilled in for future dates so that you know when you can schedule them in again after a lock-down.

For any productions that manage to get to the edit, it is possible for editors these days to be set up remotely from home on AVIDs and there are clever ways of keeping track on progress even without having to be sat next to someone all day. Speak to your post-production house and ask them to help work out the back-up edit plan.

Communication is key. Ensure your production teams are aware that insurance cover is excluded for any coronavirus-related illness, while making everyone aware of their rights and the company’s stance in relation to sick pay. The government will pay statutory sick pay for anyone who is PAYE from day one, but that currently excludes any of your Schedule D or LTD company contractors.

Most of all, look after your teams. This is a scary time for them too. Point freelancers to the people who can help support them in a crisis, such as the Film & TV Charity.

And crucially, once your plan is firmly in place, speak to your commissioning editor. It’s worth coming up with an agreement upfront should the production be delayed, with a good idea of how the broadcaster can help financially.

Don’t forget to review your plan as time goes on, as things are changing day to day. Coronavirus will unfortunately affect us all so it’s about eliminating the risks. But there are people out there who can offer support and guidance through these unknown times.

Keep calm and remember you are not alone.

 

 

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The Talent Manager’s Coronavirus FAQ’s for Freelancers

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Read below the Talent Manager’s Guide for Freelancers in the industry:

updated 17/03/2020

 

Freelancing in TV has always been a difficult and precarious career option – and it takes resilience to make it work. Everyone has gone through ‘quiet’ periods. But none of us have experienced anything like chaos caused by the coronavirus.  

Barely an hour passes without news of another production, festival, premiere or trade show that has been cancelled or postponed. From Match of the Day to MIP TV in CannesLine of Duty to the new James Bond, Studio Lambert’s Celebrity Race across the World to Coronation Street Today, the BBC announced it was pausing all its continuing dramas

TV and film are essentially social activitiesthey involve going out in the world and interacting with people be they participants, interviewees, audiences, cast or crew. The self-isolating and social distancing required to dampen the spread of the virus is existentially at odds with the process of production. 

It’s not just the all-consuming breadth of the crisis but also the speed at which it’s happened: no one – commissioners, production companies, or freelancers – had time to prepare. Although the soaps generally have a few months’ worth of programmes in the can ahead of transmission, for everyone else contingency plans are being put together on the hoof.  

And this comes after what for many has already been a challenging six months – a combination of the traditional slow-down in production over the winter months, and the EU-election uncertainty.  

If there is a sliver of hope, current estimates are that the crisis will peak in 10-14 weeks, so the worst is likely to be over by mid-summer.  

But in the meantime, a lot of people are facing some very difficult times.  

With all the other upheavals and disruption, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out what one’s rights are, and what support you can get.  

So, we’ve put together a simple guide to answer at least some of the questions that many freelancers are asking.   

It’s not exhaustive, and the situation is evolving very rapidly, so please do feedback with amendments and updates. In the meantime, we hope this is a useful starting point for freelancers who suddenly find work being cancelled, opportunities vanishing, bills to pay and potential anxieties about their health – both physical and mental.

The production I’m working on has just been cancelled/postponed? Am I entitled to notice period?

First thing: read your contract.  

Most production contracts stipulate just 1 week’s notice.  

However, according to Bectu, some companies are citing force majeure – meaning they wouldn’t have to pay even that. In such situations, it’s worth calling Bectu or the NUJ to see what your rights are.  

Of course, for freelancers there’s always the dilemma of whether to stand up for what’s right, or you may be entitled to, and risk not getting hired by that company again.  

If you are registered as a Limited company, and selling your services to the production through that, rather than a PAYE contractoragain, you need to refer to your contract  

One freelance PD who contacted the TM with his experiences was somewhat typical:  

He works via his own Limited company. A week ago he was told that a production he was due to start on had been suspended for at least 2 months and, yesterday, that another event – due to start on Monday for 11 days work had also been postponed. ‘’I asked them what their cancellation policy is, which they didn’t have an answer for. That’s the best part of £4,000 of earnings just taken away.’’ 

Although he had received a ‘deal memo’ and PO number from the company, confirming the job, the days booked, the rate and how to invoice them, it makes no mention of a cancellation policy. 

“Part of me is reluctant to go too hard [in arguing for a cancellation payment]. I’ve worked for them for a number of years but had to push hard recently for a rate increase to reflect the fact I was working at a more senior level. But is this the time to play hardball and potentially damage the relationship?’’  

Anecdotally, it seems freelancers working in High-End TV drama and film are being put on ‘half-pay’ deals – for up to 4 weeks – rather than simply terminated. This is likely to be the longer running nature of many scripted production contracts, and the complexities of them gearing back up for filming again when the hiatus does end. Post production also appears relatively – and we use that word very reservedly – ok. Despite having some jobs cancelled or postponed, most Post houses have switched quickly to enable their people to work from home. In the short term, they seem able to cope albeit with anxiety over the longer term pipeline of work. 

Factual, docs and light entertainment seem to be the most adversely affected with rafts of productions being paused or cancelled, and freelancers are given little or no notice. 

One suggestion is try speaking to the production company and see if they have any other work you can take on that doesn’t require being out and about, or even in an office with other people. Several companies are bringing their PDs back from location and giving them work edit producing, in development or doing research although, of course, that has a knock on for others who might have been hired. The Talent Manager is encouraging companies to offer an opportunities they have as Job Shares – using its new Job Sharing functionality – so that as many people as possible have some form of work, and income.

 

What are the broadcasters doing? 

 

Of course, many production companies, especially the smaller ones, are in a similarly dire bind – with overheads and salaries to pay, and their income source suddenly on gone 

Both the BBC and ITV say that they are treating each production on a ‘’case by case’’ basis. That is, the productions are negotiating directly with commissioners and business affairs over any financial support they can access, as well as changes to their schedules and contractual delivery requirements.  

PACT is encouraging its members to contact them to share experiences and issues, so it can try and coordinate a response but admits that the broadcasters are unlikely to provide blanket on-going support for suspended productions 

Behind the scenes, Bectu is trying to coordinate discussions with major industry employers – as well as asking for the government to step in with additional support.

 

.. and Government? 

 

Bectu and PACT have issued calls for the government to step in and provide support. Mike Clancy, general secretary of Prospect – of which Bectu is a part – has written to the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, asking for more to be done to “recognise and alleviate the situation of freelance and self-employed workers.’’  

Being a freelancer in the current situation can feel very lonely. So if there is a source of solace, it’s that you’re not alone: there are an estimated 5m self-employed people working in the UK – 15% of the total workforce – so the situation extends beyond the creative industries, and hopefully cannot be ignored completely by the government. Although yesterday’s unprecedented £330bn intervention did not include any direct help for the self-employed, experts believe some support will be provided. 

Tracy Brabin MP is creating a dossier to help the government understand the plight of self-employment; you can email concerns directly to herTracy.brabin.mp@parliament.uk

 

Can I claim sick pay? 

 

If you’ve been confirmed as having Covid-19 or have taken the decision to self-isolate based on the government guidance, then you will be able to claim Statutory Sick Pay from the first day you are off sick or unable to work. (You used to have to wait till day 4 before SSP kicked in, but this was changed – temporarily at least – in the recent budget.)   

If you’re an employee – that is, staff or on a short-term PAYE contract – you are eligible for SSPYou need to have done work for that employee – ie your contract needs to have started; you’ll need to have been earning at least £118 a week; and you’ll need to notify your employee that you’re sick.  

The minimum rate for SSP is £94.25 a week, for up to 28 weeks. Usually, you would be paid for this by your company and they would then claim it back from the government. (Some companies will pay you your standard rate and reclaim this lower amount – but you need to check your contract.) 

 

But … I’m not an employee. What then?  

 

Of course, many people in TV and film are not paid PAYE 

If you’re a Sole Trader – and sick or self-isolating – you need to apply for benefits, specifically the Employment and Support Allowance, which is the equivalent of sick pay for the self-employed. As one of their special ‘corona-tackling’ measures, the government has said they will fast-track payments so recipients will not have to wait the usual 5 days to receive this.  

If you’re a Limited Companyand that’s how you sell your services and invoice your clients, then it’s your company that should be looking after you. Your clients have no responsibilities for youIn theory, your company can still pay you Statutory Sick Pay (£94.25/ week for 28 weeks) and then claim it back from the government. 

 

I’m not sick or self-isolating but my work has completed dried up

 

If you are not an employee, you may instead be eligible for Universal Credit or Job Seekers allowance.  

The government has released a special guide for those who might need to claim UC as a result of the pandemic. You can read it here – https://www.understandinguniversalcredit.gov.uk/coronavirus/ 

Universal Credit is far from a straightforward system – as most people will be aware – and the unions among others have argued it’s not fit for purpose, especially in the current crisis. “UC is a system which time and time again has been proven to be unable to cope with any form of change in demand,’’ said Mike Clancy of Prospect. “Asking freelance workers to rely on UC or indeed ESA is simply inadequate.’’   

However, the government has, temporarily, removed some of the loopholes, such as the Minimum Income Floor, which should make it slightly easier for those who need to claim now 

Other useful links 

Citizens Advice Bureau

The Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE)

HMRC has put out guidance for companies affected by C-19 

Money Saving Expert – Martin Lewis

 

What about Income Protection Insurance?
 

Income protection insurance (sometimes known as permanent health insurance) is a long-term insurance policy designed to help you if you can’t work because you’re ill or injured. It gives you a regular income until you retire or are able to return to work.  

But, like Critical Health cover (which offers a one-off, lump sum payment), it only kicks in if you’re taken ill, and if the illness is one on a specified list. Clearly, its unlikely many policies will now include cover for corona-virus. Moreover, given that corona-virus – for the majority of people – is debilitating for only a short period of time, these policies are unlikely to provide much help. 

 

Is there any other help available? 

 

If you’re struggling – emotionally or financially- the Film and TV Charity may be able to help.  

They have a 24-hour helpline – 0800 054 0000 

If you’re facing financial hardship you should read the guidance provided on their website and look at all of your options, including the emergency measures put in place by some banks and HMRC, before getting in touch. If, having considered all of your options, you’re facing an urgent and immediate need for financial assistance, the charity may be able to offer one-off grants. You can complete the financial support form immediately. You don’t need to call their Support Line.

With the situation changing rapidly, it’s important to look after your mental health. All the talk of Covid-19 can make us feel even more anxious. You’re not alone. A lot of people will be feeling this way right now. You can ask for help. The charity can provide a listening ear and can also quickly refer you to trained counsellors who can provide more structured support over the phone. It’s important to stay connected with friends and family as well.

If you’re looking for legal advice, emotional, or any other kind of support you’re encouraged to use the Live Chat function on their website rather than calling, where you will reach a friendly advisor who can talk to you about your options.

When there’s a crisis, it’s good to remember that people often come together to support each other and help others out. Doing things in your community can help you to feel like you’re making a difference. As the charity supporting the UK industry in times of crisis and opportunity, The Film and TV Charity is entirely reliant on donations and welcome individual and corporate donations from those who can afford to contribute. Please note that they’re currently unable to provide voluntary opportunities. Donate today or email their Head of Fundraising Tom.Woodward@filmtvcharity.org.uk.

My bills are mounting up and I’ve got no means to pay my mortgage?

 

The fact that banks are offering to ‘payment holidays’ on mortgages of 2 to 3 months has been widely publicised. However in practice, the experience seems mixed: some freelancers have said it has been very straight forward to secure these ‘mortgage payment breathers’, others that the banks have been less amenable, and requiring proof that you have no means to pay before agreeing.  

The best thing is simply to contact your bank and discuss it.  

However, be alert: experts have warned that there’s a chance that taking a mortgage repayment holiday could also affect your credit file. They recommend keeping note of any conversations and retain all correspondence in case the lender accidentally marks your holiday as arrears. That way you should avoid any issues when you come to remortgage. 

Find out more here.   

https://www.homesandproperty.co.uk/mortgages/coronavirus-mortgage-holiday-uk-a137241.html?amp&fbclid=IwAR2W4tvS_mC-JB8mXNzj1dZ27vDsDDkPcJnD5NY83evd8xk9Egkw1vvlNV4

 

What about my Council Tax and other outgoings? 

 

The best thing is usually to phone up and be straightforward. Most companies appreciate people telling them if they are struggling to pay bills – rather than having to chase and chase and find out the hard way – and will respond constructively, with advice about reducing consumption (if applicable) or arranging a payment plan.  

For example, a number of councils are reportedly agreeing to short term payment holidays for council tax payments. 

Everyone recognises we these are unprecedented circumstances and are likely to be relatively short term, and that the best – and only – way for all of us to get through it is to work constructively, together. 

 

Do let us know your experiences – so we can update this blog

 

And in the meantime, stay healthy, stay sensible, try not to despair, and let’s all do whatever we can to look after each other. 

 

Source: www.thetalentmanager.com

 

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Latest Covid-19 updates and guidance for exhibitors and venues

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Published 17/03/2020

The Bigger Picture has published a summary of guidance for film exhibitors and venues in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. Read it below:

 

The UK Cinema Association has issued the following statement on the current situation with regard to the outbreak of Coronavirus/COVID-19:

‘Mindful of the latest scientific advice from the Government, the coming days will see the closure of most UK cinema sites.

The priority now is to ensure that the thousands who work in the sector, many of them young people, are helped during what will be an exceptionally challenging period for them, and that cinema venues across the country are supported to overcome what for many will represent an unprecedented challenge to their existence.’

The Association’s priority at the moment is ensuring that the support above is put in place. It will be making no further statement at this time.

Here are some resources that venues and exhibitors might find useful in this ever-changing situation:

18th March 2020

17th March 2020

 

Source: www.the-bigger-picture.com

 

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Film Hub Midlands’ Coronavirus message

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A message from Film Hub Midlands:

We will continue in any way we can to support the people and communities across our cinemas, festivals, filmmakers, producers, film clubs, and all film events throughout the Midlands.

We’re now going to be working from home, so please don’t ring the office. Let us know if you want to book in a call with any member of the team, you can always reach us at hello@filmhubmidlands.org

We urge people across the industry and cultural sector to contact the BFI with key concerns, to feed into their impact response recommendations. The centralised email for all enquiries is covid-19.queries@bfi.org.uk – you can read more on the BFI website.

The Bigger Picture have published a list of useful resources for exhibitors as well.

Be well, keep safe, and stay in touch.

The Film Hub Midlands team. 
Eleanor, Ian, Amy, Alexzandra, Carrie, Annabel, Lucie, and Andy. 

18/03/2020

 

Source: Film Hub Midlands

 

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BAFTA TV Awards

Bafta TV awards postponed due to coronavirus

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The annual TV Bafta awards have been postponed because of coronavirus. Organisers have said that the ceremony, due to take place on 17 May with nominations announced on 26 April, will now be halted until later in the year, with dates to be confirmed.

In a statement, Bafta added that: “We are continually monitoring the situation ​to ensure we are prepared for the challenges we may face in the coming weeks and months. We are closely following the advice of the World Health Organisation, NHS and GOV UK/Public Health England, and the safety of our members, guests and staff remains our top priority.”

The postponement comes after a range of cultural events and projects have been pushed back, from Bond film No Time tTo Die to tours by musicians including Stormzy and Billie Eilish. TV cancellations have so far been largely limited to production delays rather than events, with the Baftas marking the first major public-facing cancellation. TV shows that have halted production in Britain include Netflix’s The Witcher, and the BBC series Line of Duty and Peaky Blinders.

A number of shows usually recorded in front of audiences in the UK and the US – including the Ellen Degeneres Show and Have I Got News For You – have continued filming without audiences.

Last year’s Bafta TV awards saw wins for series including Killing Eve, Succession and Bodyguard.

 

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Source: www.theguardian.com