Emergency Fund Now Live

In case you missed it, last week we announced our new Emergency Fund and it is now open for applications. Find out more and download applicant guidance notes here. We can see that over applications have been started already so do expect the fund to be highly competitive.

As always, this page will be kept up-to-date with the latest information surrounding our Emergency Fund, current grantholder FAQs and anything else relating to Coronavirus. We will share any changes on our social media channels - follow our Twitter @youthmusicnet and @youthmusic for all the latest news updates. We also did a recent blog post which we are keeping updated on other hardship funds available to music freelancers.

Online Networks

In response to some focus groups we held recently, we are hosting a series of online network meetings in the next month to share learning and experiences. Spaces are limited to 30 per session and Eventbrite links are below. They are open to everyone, but especially if you have a direct need for information in the specific area. Please get in touch if you'd be interested in sharing any expertise to help us guide any of the the discussions.

Supporting Wellbeing - Wed 15 April 
Running Online Ensembles & Virtual Performances - Thurs 16 April
Transitioning to Online Working - Tues 21 April
Safeguarding - Fri 24 April
Singing for Health - Tues 28 April
Working with Disabled Young People During Social Distancing - Thurs 30 April
Engaging Young People Through Non-Digital Means - Tues 5 May

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Give a Gig Week Online

We have launched Give a Gig Online! We’re asking musicians to help support the next generation by taking part. All you need to do to get involved is stream live music online, spread the word to your friends and fans, and encourage listeners to donate. All money raised will go directly towards supporting our response to this unprecedented crisis so do spread the word! 

On 4th April 2020, Circle of Light joined forces with local festival Hockley Hustle to produce a charity live stream event. With almost 30,000 viewers, over £6000 (and this is still increasing!) has been raised for a hardship fund for local artists. Check out some coverage of it here on BBC News with Jake Bugg and on the Network.

NCVO and Bates Wells Practical Support During Coronavirus

NCVO (National Council for Voluntary Organisations) alongside solicitors Bates Wells have been putting out lots of useful free webinars relating to financing options, employment issues (furloughing etc) and how to manage financially through the crisis. A lot of the content can be accessed and watched again so have a look on their training page.

Collaborative online working with groups of young people with mental health issues by Dan Axon, Upfaders

A few years ago, Upfaders were involved in a research project with NHS Mental Health clinicians and academics, to create an online collaboration platform for young isolated people experiencing mental health issues. Upfaders have 15 years of experience engaging young people with mental health issues in music ad art. Online working is necessary now more than ever, but when working with young people the pitfalls are amplified, when they have mental health issues even more so, and when collaborating creatively, further still. Sharing learning from the project the key points of interest, especially during the current pandemic covered:

Engagement/Motivation
Co-ordination
Group Dymanics/Psychology
Wellbeing

Read the full blog post here.