Support for freelancers and the events sector

A further £17.5 million of emergency coronavirus (COVID-19) funding has been allocated to support creative freelancers and the events sector.

Of that, £8.5 million will go towards the events sector – distributed through the Pivotal Event Businesses Fund and the Events Industry Support Fund 2 as well as targeted support – bringing the total additional COVID-19 support for the events sector to £31.5 million.

The remaining £9 million will be distributed as a top-up to the Creative Freelancers Hardship Fund bringing the total value of support for creative freelancers to £17 million.

This support is in addition to the more than £125 million of additional funding the Scottish Government has so far allocated to culture, historic environment and events since the start of the pandemic.

Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop said:

“The impact of COVID-19 has been particularly devastating for creative freelancers and those involved in events. We are determined to support them through this challenging time and I will continue to listen to and respond swiftly to the needs of people and organisations affected.

“This significant increase in funding will help to protect jobs and support individuals and organisations affected by the pandemic whilst ensuring people across Scotland continue to have access to cultural experiences.

“Culture, events and creativity generate invaluable contributions to our society – both in terms of our economy and our wellbeing – and I would like to pay tribute to everyone within these sectors for showing incredible resilience and determination during these difficult times.”

Background

Additional support for events includes £7 million to be split between the Pivotal Event Businesses Fund and the Events Industry Support Fund 2. Both funds are delivered by EventScotland. A further £1.5 million will be used to provide targeted support to the industry.

A further £9 million has been allocated to top-up the Creative Freelancers Hardship fund in addition to £8 million already allocated. This fund is delivered by Creative Scotland.