We write to you in the midst of unprecedented and unusual times for all, as the unfolding situation surrounding COVID-19 changes daily and we are all required to be nimble, reactive and fast-acting to ensure the safety of ourselves & our families, our colleagues, and our audiences.
This crisis has far-reaching implications for people and organisations in all walks of life but there are a number of factors that make this a particularly difficult time for arts and culture – the number of freelance practitioners with unstable financial positions, the non-profit arts organisations that operate within incredibly tight margins and the artists that rely on international working, travel and public performance to survive.
We have compiled a list of links to resources and information regarding financial support, recommendations for our sector and updates on restrictions on events and travel. We intend to update these regularly but if we’ve missed something, do let us know.
Government advice on those affected financially by Corona Virus
JPN was scheduled to host a members meet up and drinks reception as part of Gateshead Jazz on Saturday 21st March but sadly, this has been cancelled. Our attendance as part of the UK and Ireland stand at Jazzahead is also cancelled until the 2021 edition.
The board are currently exploring options to deliver some of our planned work digitally and we will share news on this shortly. We hope to be able to make a statement on our 2020 Conference in Belfast (25/26 June) shortly too so do stay tuned.
Although COVID-19 has understandably demanded much of our energy lately, please rest assured that we remain committed to working to understand the implications of Brexit on our sector and will continue to pursue this, updating whenever we can.
JPN are committed to supporting its membership and the wider sector in whatever way it can so, if you have any thoughts or ideas on ways we can do this, or perhaps have plans to stream some of your planned events and wish to spread the word, please get in touch with us and we’ll do our very best to help out.
More soon – stay safe and well,
JPN Board