A template letter to the UK government regarding support for the creative sector in light of COVID 19
Dear Prime Minister,
In a challenging time affecting people, businesses and the way we thrive as a society, Coronavirus Crisis is our threat but also our opportunity. It is our chance to unlock capacity for unity, therefore we call the Government and the society to tackle the crisis under ‘No man left behind’ principle.
The UK fashion and textiles industry are a national success story, with a world leading global reputation. We generate over 57,000 industry related SMEs and nearly 1m in the fashion and textiles workforce, generating almost £33bn for the UK economy in a sector growing 11% year on year. We call the Government to support those that cannot travel for work and do not have employment rights safeguards. Already there are many cases where fashion industry workers are having contracts cancelled, with no governmental support and as these are primarily freelance or self employed, so statutory support to cover loss of earnings, as well as pay their rent or mortgage and utility bills. This is unsustainable, and has to be addressed immediately. 100% of the sector who were surveyed today by Fashion Roundtable have asked for a deferral on all mortgage and rent bills and according to a BECTU survey from only yesterday a massive 97% of creative sector freelancers have lost confidence in the UK Government. This is clearly a crisis and requires clear guidance, support and understanding from our leaders.
We urge the Government to encompass support to compensate all freelancers, self-employed and small businesses whose income is affected by loss in work and lost business due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Referring to measures taken in France and Italy, we need new measures for utilities bills relief, hiatus on rent, mortgage bills, as well as wages support and sick pay.
Government’s "Budget 2020 Support for those affected by COVID-19" and the small business grant in response to COVID 19 of £3,000, announced by the Chancellor, is certainly reassuring planning. However, we cannot know the implications and amplitude of the current crisis, so we need to continue dialogue and provide support to the most affected ones. Ultimately, we believe this is the key attitude to maintain a healthy and prosperous society in the long run.
Your Sincerely,
[Sign your name]