Source · Select Committees · Culture, Media and Sport Committee
Recommendation 14
14
Paragraph: 60
The Government must learn from the shortcomings of previous support schemes, including those for charities...
Recommendation
The Government must learn from the shortcomings of previous support schemes, including those for charities and self-employed people, to ensure this package is tailored to the unique characteristics of the cultural sector and its workers, and reaches them promptly. The Government must recognise the interconnected nature of the cultural 58 Impact of COVID-19 on DCMS sectors: First Report sector and should not restrict support to well established, high profile, institutions: it is essential that cultural freelancers and small companies in the creative industries supply chain are also eligible for direct support. To reduce uncertainty, the Government must publish eligibility criteria and application guidance as soon as possible, and ensure that the funding reaches recipients no later than October 2020.
Paragraph Reference:
60
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The funding criteria and application process for the Culture Recovery Fund went live in early August. Money has already begun to be allocated, with £3.36 million in emergency funding for grassroots music venues allocated on 22 August. Additionally, as part of the Fund, the British Film Institute is allocating £30 million in grants on behalf of DCMS to support independent cinemas as they reopen. In the first wave of grant allocations (announced on October 2nd), 42 independent cinemas across England received a share of £654,883 in grant funding to preserve the local cultural offer and rescue organisations that are at risk of insolvency this financial year. Currently DCMS, in partnerships with its Arms Length Bodies, is processing over 4,000 applications for more than £880 million of grant funding, and announcements about allocations will be made in the coming weeks. of sub-sectors within the cultural and creative eco-systems including theatres, performing arts, galleries, museums, heritage sites, music venues and independent cinemas. Priority will be given to organisations with a national and international reputation, and to organisations which are central to the cultural fabric of our towns and regions. We will ensure that funding is distributed fairly, and that smaller organisations and cultural venues at the centre of their communities are protected.