Covid Recovery Programme for Heritage Individuals
Overview
The Covid Recovery Programme for Heritage Individuals will provide support to self-employed and freelance individuals working across the heritage sector. This could include conservators, builders, craftworkers and tour guides.
It is aimed at individuals who were trading viably before COVID-19, have exhausted all other reasonable financing options, and whose income and earning potential has been negatively impacted by the pandemic.
Grants of £2,000 are available.
Overview
The overriding objective of this Department for Communities programme is to retain a vital workforce within the heritage sector which is at risk of being lost as a result of COVID-19. The programme also aims to support this workforce in adapting to a changing heritage sector.
Many freelance workers, craftworkers and those with specialist heritage skills have lost some of their earned income this year. If not given support this sector may take longer to return to a functioning heritage economy.
Priority for funding will be given to those who have been unable to access other forms of financial support from Government or other sources.
Who can apply?
They are accepting applications from self-employed and freelance individuals working in the heritage sector. Individuals must have a principal private residence in Northern Ireland. Applicants need to be over 18.
These individuals could include specialist heritage builders, conservators and craftspeople registered with an appropriate professional body. It could also include tour guides who provide heritage tours or tours at heritage sites.
This is an indicative list and is not exhaustive. The fund is aimed at workers in the heritage economy who bring skills or expertise to the heritage ecosystem.
Individuals must demonstrate that their income has been negatively impacted during this period, in full or in part due to COVID-19.
Please note applicants who have received funding from the Arts Council's Creative Individuals Recovery Programme, are not eligible for this fund.
What you can apply for?
Individuals can apply for costs incurred from 1 April 2021 – 31 March 2022.
The following costs are indicative, and are not an exhaustive list:
- Living costs/wage replenishment
- Professional fees such as accountancy fees
- Attendance at industry events and membership fees for professional bodies
- Digital equipment and licenses to assist in remote working
- Training and skills development which help to maintain or enhance professional practice
Assessment Criteria
Your application will be assessed on the following factors:
- Your CV and your contribution to the heritage sector in Northern Ireland before COVID 19.
- The benefit that this award will have on the sustainability of your professional skills.
What you provide above will be used to evaluate the impact your work and practice has had and will make to the heritage sector in Northern Ireland.
If they are oversubscribed, they will prioritise awards based on the criteria above.