UK Resources
As a result of these unprecedented times, The Mandy Team has created a resources page providing you with a wide range of information and support material to help you stay positive and motivated during lockdown! We are here to guide each one of our 2.7million talented members through this period, we continue to list incredible jobs from employers across the world and along with our guides, this page will help you keep busy, stay fit and remain informed.
Click on the images below to find out more about the resources and support available for each sector.
Information & Support
We have collated the most helpful links from UK institutions. Find out what help is out there!
*NEW* This festive period will be a difficult time for many across the country. Support is out there, and Shout 85258 is on hand to ensure the vulnerable have a space where they can feel safe. Shout 85285 is a free, confidential, 24/7 text-messaging support service for anyone who is anxious, stressed, depressed, suicidal or overwhelmed and who need immediate support. You can text Shout to 85258 for free 24/7 support in the UK.
*NEW* Black Minds Matter UK connects Black individuals and families with free professional mental health resources - this includes professional Black therapists. They aim to make mental health topics more relevant and accessible for all Black people in the UK, removing the stigma and remodelling the services to be relevant to the Black community. You can find out more here.
*NEW* Our friends at BFI champion and diverse projects that reach new audiences, and they continue to support professionals during this climate. They have lots of funding opportunities, ranging from funding for film and TV development, skilling-up, international exhibitors, engagement opportunities between UK-based and international filmmakers and more. Find out more about BFI’s funding opportunities here.
Representing over 47,000 performers and creative practitioners, Equity has published a briefing that is intended to provide general advice for its members on returning to work in Live Performance. Equity’s briefing outlines what professionals need to know if they are working for other people or are working for themselves, ensuring they are as equipped as possible to return to work in this space. You can read their briefing here.
The UK government has recently released guidelines for professionals working in the performing arts industry, including arts organisations and venue operators and participants. To ensure the sector operates with the highest level of safety, they have provided crucial guidance for casting and auditions, managing venue capacity and important considerations for those at a higher risk, as well as PPE and how departments can work together without harm. You can read their guidelines in full here.
The UK arts industry has been heavily impacted by the pandemic, with many areas of the sector struggling to stay afloat. Following weeks of pressure to senior officials, the UK government has on 6th July unveiled a £1.57bn support package to help protect the futures of UK theatres, galleries, museums and other cultural venues. The grant is aimed at providing support for renowned venues and also local institutions. You can read more about the support package here.
The Theatre Artists Fund has been set up by the established charity Theatre Development Trust, with a donation from Netflix, and it provides emergency support for theatre workers and freelancers across the UK. The fund is for theatre professionals who are in need of urgent and critical financial support due to the devastating impact of Covid-19 on the theatre sector. You can find out more about the fund and make a donation here.
While our fantastic industry recovers, it is important to remember that help, support and guidance are out there. Leading charities for the creative industry have come together to centralise information about how and where you can access support if you work in the theatre industry. Check the page out here.
The current climate is an incredibly tricky time for many of us. However, it is important to remember that there is support out there and that these unprecedented times will soon pass. Citizens Advice detail methods of support if you are struggling with living costs, such as help from the government and your local council. Visit their website here for more information.
Voluntary Arts works to promote and increase active participation in creative activities across the country. They recently launched #CreativeNetwork - a daily online get-together open to anyone involved in our industry who would welcome the opportunity to talk to others about dealing with the current situation. Sessions happen every weekday and you can find out more information here.
Playing Sane is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the relationship between mental health and acting, offering information for performers, their colleagues and carers across the industry. Starting on 13th April, they will be launching a temporary service linking up individuals from the industry with mental health professionals who can offer a free, brief intervention for people having difficulties dealing with the current situation. If you feel you need any help, please visit their website here.
It is no understatement that these unprecedented times are providing many hurdles for professionals in the industry, especially those that are self-employed. Do not fret, there is help out there. This guide from MoneySavingExpert.com looks at your rights at work for the employed, self-employed and others, including who's eligible for furlough, and also what help is out there from the state. You can find out more information here.
As you know, the NHS is urging people to stay at home as much as possible. You should only leave your house to shop for basic necessities, to do one form of exercise a day, if you have any medical needs, to provide care or help a vulnerable person and to travel to and from work. Hygiene is also extremely important at this moment in time, the advice is to wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. You can read the full NHS advice here.
The UK Government is keeping us up to date with the latest stats. While it’s important to be informed, many mental health professionals are also advising not to read the news too much as it can cause a feeling of anxiety. To find out more about the recent government action and the regulations that have been put in place to reduce the risk of further human-to-human transmission, click here.
Our friends at Equity are offering their members advice on work and contracts as well as mental health support. Information is changing daily so it’s important to check their website regularly to understand your entitlement to the different levels of financial support available during the Coronavirus outbreak and how to claim.
The Dancers Career Development are still offering support for professional dancers, delivered remotely these programmes offer a wealth of information to the dancing community. To find out more about their One to One Conversations and Personal and Career Coaching sessions across the UK, click here.
Our friends at the BFI have set up a Q&A resource with all the information and guidance they have on COVID-19 and its impact on the screen sector at large – this information is also for freelancers, exhibitors and productions. On their page, you will find more information on resources and support made available by Government and other stakeholders for freelancers and self-employed.
Education
As we all self-isolate at home, you might want to use your new found free time to develop your skills with these online resources.
Christopher David Mitchell is an expert vocal coach and he has been helping performers reach their fullest vocal potential for years. Christopher is on hand to ensure you stay on top of your craft and develop your vocals during lockdown! His YouTube channel is full of warm up exercises, tips for singers and so much more. Check it out here!
A huge online community of performing artists in the UK, The Hustle continues to be a great hub for talented professionals to engage with each other and learn more about the industry. This climate is no different! They are offering a whole host of free live classes and workshops that you can enjoy from home. Go on, develop your craft this lockdown.
Prep Your Rep LDN is a bespoke online service that is designed to help ‘prep your repertoire’ - meaning theatre performers have access to useful advice from professionals. The talented team continue to offer support and guidance for performers, and they are hosting various Instagram Lives, designed to help you in your career.
Established in 1970 and dedicated to emerging artists and providing quality productions for a diverse range of audience, King’s Head Theatre may have closed its doors but it is still acting as a positive light in the industry. Their team and incredible contacts in the industry are going live on Facebook and Instagram every day, discussing insightful topics and answering all of your questions. Check them out here.
HighTide is a theatre company and charity based in East Anglia that helps launch the careers of emerging British playwrights. They have launched a series of programmes that reflect their value and mission, including script-reading workshops and a playwright crisis support programme. Visit their website and stay involved in our fantastic industry here.
Are you a voice-over artist looking to develop your career? Or are you an actor who would like to learn how to become a voice-over professional? Gary Terzza is a voice-over artist and coach and he offers unique and interactive voice-over masterclasses for beginners online. Click here to find out more.
The National Theatre has made available, on Youtube, a collection of recorded live events, featuring interviews with actors, playwrights and directors about their work on stage, screen and at the National Theatre. Binge the good stuff and check their content out here!
It can’t get much more iconic than BAFTA, and their Guru Masterclasses are just what the doctor ordered in our current climate. A hub for inspirational career advice from the very best in film, games and television, browse through interviews with some of screen’s most renowned figures. Watch their sit-down videos filmed at BAFTA and listen to their podcasts on your daily outdoor exercise break. Check out the page here and have some much-needed chill time.
OpenLearn offers free online courses from a wide range of subjects. Some are based on Open University course materials, others are written specifically for OpenLearn. Find out more about the available courses here.
Since 2016, Voiceover Kickstart has been helping performers develop their voiceover careers. Their courses do not just cover 'How to become a voice actor', but how to sustain a long and healthy career in voice acting. You can now create a free account to access their programme. It will run for 7 days beginning the moment you hit the sign up button and each day you will be presented with new material.
This is also a great time for you to read our helpful guides and top tips from the experts on making a successful career as a performer. We cover everything including finding your first job, insider knowledge on auditions, explaining what everyone does on a film set, how to perfect a self-tape, finding an agent and much more.
Community
In these times of self-isolation and social distancing, it’s important to keep connected with fellow industry professionals. Here are the best online resources available:
Greenwich Theatre is one of London’s premiere Off-West End theatres and continues to support young and emerging talent. While all their performances have been suspended, they are hosting an online programme of interactive theatre opportunities for theatre-lovers. From Q&A sessions advice on monologues and so much more, their page is full of great activities.
If you are an established or budding composer and in need of a project to work in while self-isolating, this could be your perfect chance to remain involved in the industry and get the opportunity of a lifetime! The task is for composers to write ‘A Song for our Time’ - an original song to be recorded by West End stars and a huge virtual choir, with all proceeds going to Acting For Others. Find out more information here.
In association with The Actors Centre, Talk Community offers peer to peer group support sessions for folks in the entertainment industry. They are hosting regular sessions throughout the week - they are open to everyone and you can access the sessions through Zoom. Check out their Twitter page here for more information.
ArtsMinds is a collaboration between BAPAM, Equity, The Stage and Spotlight – four entertainment industry organisations that collectively reach thousands of performers and creative practitioners working across all art forms. They are dedicated to their mission of helping those in the creative industries with mental health illnesses, and they have compiled an extensive page of links to great organisations that can offer support in this climate.You can visit the page here.
We are very proud that we can bring together a wide network of talented industry professionals. Our forum is a great place for our members to have conversations, share wisdom, find work, collaborate and support each other. We highly recommend you to use this tool to join conversations and networks with fellow performers.
Fun & fit
While we highly recommend you to use your free time to develop your craft, it’s also very important to wind down to keep yourself physically and mentally healthy.
Andrew Lloyd Webber's family of seven theatres in London's West End may have temporarily shut their doors, but you can still enjoy the world of theatre from your own home. LW Theatres has created dozens of public playlists on their Spotify page, rounding up some of the theatre industry’s best soundtracks. If you’re in need of a pick me up, check the playlists out here.
While we may not be able to remain a physical part of our fantastic industry, there is still a whole host of great platforms that can inspire and entertain you during lockdown. Check out BBC’s Performance Live website where there is a variety of great videos from talented performers and filmmakers across the industry.
Just because we’re at home doesn’t mean theatre can’t still be life! If you’re in need of a pick me up during these trying times, check out the incredible content on The Show Must Go On YouTube channel. They have a whole host of performances from London’s West End across the years and they are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
TimeOut has aptly temporarily rebranded as ‘TimeIn’, and they are still on hand to provide us with great sources of entertainment and experiences that will keep our minds active. If you’re in need of an activity that is going to get your adrenaline pumping, then why not check out their list of the best virtual escape rooms? We’ll meet you in there!
The iconic Somerset House is London’s working arts centre, and they continue to keep their community engaged during these unprecedented times. Their online platform ‘Transmissions’ commissions artists and brings people together to share their work within a DIY TV show format. Browse through the most compelling content here.
In these unprecedented times, it may seem that bad news is unavoidable. What did the doctor order? John Krasinski. To be more specific, John Krasinski’s brand new YouTube channel, #SomeGoodNews! For when you’re feeling a little blue and in need of a pick me up from Scranton’s most handsome paper salesman, check out his videos here. With heartwarming stories from across the globe, have a little smile to perk your day right up.
For those long days spent self-isolating, it can be difficult to let your creative juices run wild. Getty Museum in L.A. is on hand to help with this! Recently they asked their community to recreate at home iconic paintings that are currently in the museum. The result? Well, check them out for yourself here. This link may contain images of adorable pets, cute kids and adults with buckets on their heads.
Royal Academy of Dance continues to connect and inspire dancers of all backgrounds. While their doors may be shut, they are hugely active on their YouTube channel, bringing ballet to the masses - beginners are welcome! If you have some spare time on your hands and would love to develop a new hobby, then visit their channel. They have a great video on beginners ballet for adults here!
Shakespeare’s Globe, the world-renowned performing arts venue, cultural attraction and education centre, may have temporarily closed their buildings, but they continue to develop their online content during these trying times. You can virtually-attend their productions online - every two weeks they will show a new play for free! Enjoy their content here.
If you’re going a little quarantine-crazy and in need of some light relief, we have found pure joy in a single video. Demonstrating solidarity in the industry and keeping spirits high, 70 West End stars have come together to perform Les Misérables’ ‘Do You Hear The People Sing’. Look out for your favourite stars here and join in the singalong at home!
Are you looking for new ways to exercise and keep fit from home? The NHS recommends one hour of exercise a day and dancing is one of the most enjoyable ways to get moving. From hip-hop to the foxtrot, dance fever is sweeping the nation, fuelled by popular TV shows such as Strictly Come Dancing and Britain's Got Talent. Regular dancing is great for losing weight, maintaining strong bones, improving posture and muscle strength, increasing balance and coordination, and beating stress. The NHS has a list of the best places to find dance classes.
As great cinephiles, how we could we not include a list of films to watch. The Guardian has published a list of the 100 best movies since 2000. Gangsters, superheroes, lovers, peasants, techies, Tenenbaums and free-falling astronauts – they’re all in there. Click here to read more.
During these unprecedented times, the theatre community has come together to provide viewers from around the world the opportunity to stream select theatre productions for free. Check out this updating list of musicals, plays, and operas!
Information & Support
We have collated the most helpful links from UK institutions. Find out what help is out there!
*NEW* This festive period will be a difficult time for many across the country. Support is out there, and Shout 85258 is on hand to ensure the vulnerable have a space where they can feel safe. Shout 85285 is a free, confidential, 24/7 text-messaging support service for anyone who is anxious, stressed, depressed, suicidal or overwhelmed and who need immediate support. You can text Shout to 85258 for free 24/7 support in the UK.
*NEW* Black Minds Matter UK connects Black individuals and families with free professional mental health resources - this includes professional Black therapists. They aim to make mental health topics more relevant and accessible for all Black people in the UK, removing the stigma and remodelling the services to be relevant to the Black community. You can find out more here.
*NEW* Our friends at BFI champion and diverse projects that reach new audiences, and they continue to support professionals during this climate. They have lots of funding opportunities, ranging from funding for film and TV development, skilling-up, international exhibitors, engagement opportunities between UK-based and international filmmakers and more. Find out more about BFI’s funding opportunities here.
*NEW* Streaming giant and industry heavyweight Netflix could be your ticket to success in your career. Their newly announced Documentary Talent Fund has arrived to help find the next generation of filmmakers, as they believe great stories can come from anyone, anywhere - and that viewers want to see their lives reflected on screen. All you have to do is submit a short synopsis about your documentary idea, and they may help bring it to life! Find out more here.
The UK government has recently released guidelines for professionals working in the performing arts industry, including arts organisations and venue operators and participants. To ensure the sector operates with the highest level of safety, they have provided crucial guidance for casting and auditions, managing venue capacity and important considerations for those at a higher risk, as well as PPE and how departments can work together without harm. You can read their guidelines in full here.
The UK arts industry has been heavily impacted by the pandemic, with many areas of the sector struggling to stay afloat. Following weeks of pressure to senior officials, the UK government has on 6th July unveiled a £1.57bn support package to help protect the futures of UK theatres, galleries, museums and other cultural venues. The grant is aimed at providing support for renowned venues and also local institutions. You can read more about the support package here.
The Theatre Artists Fund has been set up by the established charity Theatre Development Trust, with a donation from Netflix, and it provides emergency support for theatre workers and freelancers across the UK. The fund is for theatre professionals who are in need of urgent and critical financial support due to the devastating impact of Covid-19 on the theatre sector. You can find out more about the fund and make a donation here.
Despite many areas of our industry remaining shut down, progress is being made as we turn our efforts to reopening productions across the UK. A new report has been released that addresses the management of the risks COVID-19 has in production making. The report here outlines vital advice and information for producers, broadcasters and more.
Many advancements are being made in the creative industry and steps are in place to ensure productions run safely and smoothly. APA (Advertising Producers Association) has released Shooting Guidelines for commercials, with the purpose of enabling production companies to take responsible steps to ensure the safety of everyone present on set during a shoot.
The current climate is an incredibly tricky time for many of us. However, it is important to remember that there is support out there and that these unprecedented times will soon pass. Citizens Advice detail methods of support if you are struggling with living costs, such as help from the government and your local council. Visit their website here for more information.
Voluntary Arts works to promote and increase active participation in creative activities across the country. They recently launched #CreativeNetwork - a daily online get-together open to anyone involved in our industry who would welcome the opportunity to talk to others about dealing with the current situation. Sessions happen every weekday and you can find out more information here.
It is no understatement that these unprecedented times are providing many hurdles for professionals in the industry, especially those that are self-employed. Do not fret, there is help out there. This guide from MoneySavingExpert.com looks at your rights at work for the employed, self-employed and others, including who's eligible for furlough, and also what help is out there from the state. You can find out more information here.
As you know, the NHS is urging people to stay at home as much as possible. You should only leave your house to shop for basic necessities, to do one form of exercise a day, if you have any medical needs, to provide care or help a vulnerable person and to travel to and from work. Hygiene is also extremely important at this moment in time, the advice is to wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. You can read the full NHS advice here.
The UK Government is keeping us up to date with the latest stats. While it’s important to be informed, many mental health professionals are also advising not to read the news too much as it can cause a feeling of anxiety. To find out more about the recent government action and the regulations that have been put in place to reduce the risk of further human-to-human transmission, click here.
A membership organisation that sets and upholds standards, safety and compliance for theatre and live performance, ABTT are dedicated to helping the industry. They have created a page with relevant resources, free online training courses, events and activities that people are offering remotely, via Skype, phone or live streamed. Take a look here and check out their helpful resources page.
Masterclass are continuously on hand to provide support, training and advice for those aged 16-30 with an interest in theatre. They have an extensive page of resources, filled with online training courses, events and activities that people are offering via Skype, phone or live-streamed. Wanting some light-relief? They have also created an area that links you to never-before-seen footage of famous productions. You can visit the page here.
Maintaining their progressive work and vision for equality and the fair treatment for all those affected by mental illness, Rethink has organised a hugely important page giving you support and resources during this difficult time. Their advice includes pages dedicated on how to cope with your mental health during this pandemic, advice for carers with mental illness, ways to stay active in the house, changes to the Mental Health Act and more. You can visit the page here.
Our friends at the BFI have set up a Q&A resource with all the information and guidance they have on COVID-19 and its impact on the screen sector at large – this information is also for freelancers, exhibitors and productions. On their page, you will find more information on resources and support made available by Government and other stakeholders for freelancers and self-employed.
Representing over 40,000 staff, contract and freelance workers in the media and entertainment industries, Bectu is the union for creative ambition. Their members work in non-performance roles in the creative industries and Bectu continues to support them in any way they can during these trying times. They have created a page dedicated to providing useful information and resources for their members, including how to access benefits, advice for those who are self-employed and more. Visit the page here for more information.
With over 7,000 members, Directors UK is the professional association of directors working with the moving image in the UK. Directors UK ensures that the work of directors is recognised, offering a powerful and united voice in the industry. During this current climate, they have cancelled their in-person events, but they are still on hand to help their members. Their website has been updated to reflect this additional support.
Education
As we all self-isolate at home, you might want to use your new found free time to develop your skills with these online resources.
BFI Film Academy continues to run courses and resources for young people wanting to take their first steps into the film industry. This year they are going virtual and their Upskilling in Isolation series are designed to support young, aspiring filmmakers and help them develop their skills and projects from home. Find out more here about the sessions, as well as individual mentoring and workshop sessions - The Mandy Network are proud partners!
ACCESS:VFX is a global, industry-led, non-profit in the VFX, animation and games industries. With its primary focus of pursuing and encouraging inclusion, diversity, awareness and opportunity for professionals in the industry, they continue to host insightful podcasts. You can check out their YouTube page here, and their recent video details how you can work in the USA and Canada, with guidance from top experts.
ScreenSkills is an industry-led skills body for the UK film and TV industries, ensuring professionals and the sector have the skills and talent they need. They have launched their new and free online training module: Coronavirus Basic Awareness on Production Training. This module is designed for freelancers and crew, highlighting their personal responsibility in reducing the risk of coronavirus and preparing them for the safety measures productions are taking. You can find out more about it here.
Friends in Film is a network of go-getter film industry professionals who are located in major metropolitan areas of the US, as well as London, Sydney, Vancouver and Toronto. Their incredible network can allow you to get established in your chosen industry in no time. If you’re looking for insight into the industry from talented professionals, Friends in Film’s mentorship program is for you - check it out here!
The National Theatre has made available, on Youtube, a collection of recorded live events, featuring interviews with actors, playwrights and directors about their work on stage, screen and at the National Theatre. Binge the good stuff and check their content out here!
It can’t get much more iconic than BAFTA, and their Guru Masterclasses are just what the doctor ordered in our current climate. A hub for inspirational career advice from the very best in film, games and television, browse through interviews with some of screen’s most renowned figures. Watch their sit-down videos filmed at BAFTA and listen to their podcasts on your daily outdoor exercise break. Check out the page here and have some much-needed chill time.
Jointly owned by The Open University and The SEEK Group, Future Learn offers a diverse selection of courses from leading universities and cultural institutions from around the world. These are delivered one step at a time and are accessible on mobile, tablet and desktop, so you can fit learning around your life. They provide specialised courses for the current climate, including how to provide continuity for students, managing COVID-19 in general practice and much more. Visit their page here.
The home of free learning, The Open University delivers bite-sized learning experiences designed to fit easily into our current lives, including 900+ short courses, thousands of articles, quizzes and interactive games and hundreds of educational videos and audios. Check out their catalogue of free courses here.
This is also a great time for you to read our helpful guides and top tips from the experts on making a successful career in the film industry. We cover everything from finding your first job in film, insider knowledge on auditions, explaining what everyone does on a film set, how to perfect a self-tape, finding an agent and much more.
The iconic BFI continues to bring exclusive content to their audience. While their Southbank cinema venue may have temporarily closed its doors, their YouTube channel continues to provide quality content to the British film industry. From Screen Talks and Filmmaker Q&As to film trailers and interviews, their channel is offering compelling and engaging content.
The Royal Television Society (RTS) is Britain’s leading forum for television and related media. They host an annual awards ceremony, internationally recognised for quality and originality. With all in-person activity postponed due to the pandemic, their YouTube channel continues to be a dedicated space for accessing insightful content from the industry, including interviews with notable figures and engaging Q&As and panel discussions.
Community
In times of self-isolation and social distancing, it’s important to keep connected with fellow industry professionals. Here are the best online resources available:
If you are an established or budding composer and in need of a project to work in while self-isolating, this could be your perfect chance to remain involved in the industry and get the opportunity of a lifetime! The task is for composers to write ‘A Song for our Time’ - an original song to be recorded by West End stars and a huge virtual choir, with all proceeds going to Acting For Others. Find out more information here.
An association with The Actors Centre, Talk Community offers peer to peer group support sessions for folks in the entertainment industry. They are hosting regular sessions throughout the week - they are open to everyone and you can access the sessions through Zoom. Check out their Twitter page here for more information.
ArtsMinds is a collaboration between BAPAM, Equity, The Stage and Spotlight – four entertainment industry organisations that collectively reach thousands of performers and creative practitioners working across all art forms. They are dedicated to their mission of helping those in the creative industries with mental health illnesses, and they have compiled an extensive page of links to great organisations that can offer support in this climate.You can visit the page here.
This Meetup group hosts regular networking events with the aim of encouraging filmmakers to meet and build professional relationships. The group usually holds workshops, panel discussions and courses, but in our current situation, they are beginning to offer webinars for those in the creative industries. You can learn more about the group here.
Fun & fit
While we highly recommend you to use your free time to develop your craft, it’s also very important to wind down to keep yourself physically and mentally healthy.
Now that we all have a little more time on our hands, it’s safe to say our kitchens have never had so much use. Are you in need of some inspiration on culinary delights you can whip up? BBC Good Food has a variety of mouthwatering recipes that are five ingredients or less! There’s no excuse to not cook up a storm.
TimeOut has aptly temporarily rebranded as ‘TimeIn’, and they are still on hand to provide us with great sources of entertainment and experiences that will keep our minds active. If you’re in need of an activity that is going to get your adrenaline pumping, then why not check out their list of the best virtual escape rooms? We’ll meet you in there!
The iconic Somerset House is London’s working arts centre, and they continue to keep their community engaged during these unprecedented times. Their online platform ‘Transmissions’ commissions artists and brings people together to share their work within a DIY TV show format. Browse through the most compelling content here.
In these unprecedented times, it may seem that bad news is unavoidable. What did the doctor order? John Krasinski. To be more specific, John Krasinski’s brand new YouTube channel, #SomeGoodNews! For when you’re feeling a little blue and in need of a pick me up from Scranton’s most handsome paper salesman, check out his videos here. With heartwarming stories from across the globe, have a little smile to perk your day right up.
This hugely popular YouTube channel offers fitness tutorials, workouts, and exercises to help you on your journey to healthy living, weight loss, and stress relief. With classes hosted by some of the USA’s most influential professional trainers, the channel has amassed a cult following for those wanting to stay fit at home. Already enjoyed your daily outdoor exercise for the day? Check out their videos here and beat the blues one workout at a time.
Skillshare believes in the seemingly simple act of creating and understands it can be a force for growth, change, and discovery in people’s lives. As an online learning community, it is the perfect hub to utilise while self-isolating. If you are in need of some vitamin D and fresh air, why not browse through their online gardening classes? They are free, super easy to follow and are the perfect distraction. Turn your thumb green and check out their classes here.
Are you feeling crafty? There is no better way to entertain the kids (or yourself), while creating something useful, than by getting stuck into crafts. The Crafts Channel uploads regular online masterclasses for crafting techniques, with hundreds of video demonstrations that are jam-packed with ideas and inspiration for you to try from the comfort of your own home. From stitching to knitting and card making to origami, your boredom ends here.
Information & Support
We have collated the most helpful links from UK institutions. Find out what help is out there!
*NEW* This festive period will be a difficult time for many across the country. Support is out there, and Shout 85258 is on hand to ensure the vulnerable have a space where they can feel safe. Shout 85285 is a free, confidential, 24/7 text-messaging support service for anyone who is anxious, stressed, depressed, suicidal or overwhelmed and who need immediate support. You can text Shout to 85258 for free 24/7 support in the UK.
*NEW* Black Minds Matter UK connects Black individuals and families with free professional mental health resources - this includes professional Black therapists. They aim to make mental health topics more relevant and accessible for all Black people in the UK, removing the stigma and remodelling the services to be relevant to the Black community. You can find out more here.
*NEW* Our friends at BFI champion and diverse projects that reach new audiences, and they continue to support professionals during this climate. They have lots of funding opportunities, ranging from funding for film and TV development, skilling-up, international exhibitors, engagement opportunities between UK-based and international filmmakers and more. Find out more about BFI’s funding opportunities here.
YoungMinds is a mental health charity helping lead the fight for a future where all young people are supported and empowered. Self-isolating can have a tremendously negative impact on one’s mental health, and they provided useful advice on their website on how to cope with this.
As you know, the NHS is urging people to stay at home as much as possible. You should only leave your house to shop for basic necessities, to do one form of exercise a day, if you have any medical needs, to provide care or help a vulnerable person and to travel to and from work. Hygiene is also extremely important at this moment in time, the advice is to wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. You can read the full NHS advice here.
The UK Government is keeping us up to date with the latest stats. While it’s important to be informed, many mental health professionals are also advising not to read the news too much as it can cause a feeling of anxiety. To find out more about the recent government action and the regulations that have been put in place to reduce the risk of further human-to-human transmission, click here.
Pearson provides a blend of content, curriculum, assessment, training and information systems to make learning more engaging and effective. Their priority is to support students and teachers during this time of uncertainty, ensuring the hard work young people have achieved up to this stage will be worthwhile. Pearson continues to work with the Department for Education, Ofqual and the other exam boards, and has a useful page centred on support for parents and carers, online learning and news regarding qualifications. You can view the page here.
Dedicated to helping the mental wellbeing of anyone who needs help, SupportLine provides a confidential telephone helpline offering emotional support to any individual on any issue. The Helpline is primarily a preventative service and aims to support people who are socially isolated, vulnerable, at risk groups and victims of any form of abuse. In this current climate, it is hugely important to understand that support is out there and only a phone call away. If you need to speak with someone, please find all the information you need on their page.
The Children’s Society is committed to ensuring no child should ever feel alone. They are dedicated to their work and continue to help those in need during this climate. Their services currently risk assessing cases and are continuing to support young people in the best way possible. They have postponed all volunteering activities that involve people coming into personal contact with others, but host a lot of useful information on their website. You can visit their site here.
Education
Here you will find a selection of educational resources for Young Performers of all ages.
*NEW* A household and much-loved name across the world, Scholastic has been bringing beneficial educational resources and materials to families for decades. Just because we aren’t allowed outside doesn’t mean great resources aren’t still available. Their website is packed with activities, stories and games that are great for kids and parents as we navigate these unique times. Check it out here and keep your kids entertained.
For over 100 years Official London Theatre has been an integral part of London’s theatre industry. These unprecedented times are no different, and they continue to offer fun and engaging ways in which children can stay entertained at home. Visit their dedicated page here - it’s full of downloadable Disney activities, Shaesperea learning resources and much more.
Mousetrap is a theatre education charity dedicated to enriching the lives of young people. While theatre’s across the country may be closed, the show must go on! They have launched their #EveryHomeATheatre campaign that provides households with theatre-based fun and creative learning activities. From monologue slams to dance workshops, stay on top of and engaged with the theatre industry here!
BBC expands its virtual learning offering and has launched Bitesize Daily. Collaborating with teachers and education specialists, a slew of famous faces will take part in 14 weeks of curriculum-based learning for kids across the UK, including Professor Brian Cox, Danny Dyer, Sir David Attenborough and more. Check it out here!
British Youth Music Theatre is a leading music theatre company for young people and supported by Arts Council England. They remain to be very active on their YouTube channel, offering engaging content for young people interested in the industry. Beginning last week, they have started a series of webinars with professionals, discussing all things theatre and answering loads of questions. You can visit their YouTube channel here.
Based in Surrey, Stage & Screen School may have closed its doors on their weekly acting and musical theatre classes & holiday workshops, but they continue to provide courses for young people in other ways. They have just launched their 12-week Summer Term Online Course, providing a great insight into the industry for young performers as well as engaging and beneficial activities. Find out more about the course here.
BBC is continuing to provide relevant updates on our current climate, as well as useful links, information and support for families and children who are in need of guidance. They are regularly sharing articles and advice, including tips on successful homeschooling, great educational source materials, technological advancements that help children stay on top of their schoolwork. You can find out more information here.
Ever on hand to help young people, parents and guardians, BBC Bitesize continues to publish useful resource materials. Their website is split into those at primary, secondary and post-secondary education levels. Their app is also super useful for those wanting their child to engage with a topic in a more relaxed environment. Check out the website here.
Twinkl proudly creates educational resources that can be used at each step of a child's learning journey. Their teacher-created resources provide entire schemes of work, lesson planning and assessments right through to online educational games, augmented reality and more. With over 525,000 resources and a website that is updated daily, this is your ticket to a great homeschooling period for your child.
Cleverly declaring their current focus ‘The Great Indoors’, Scouts understand that the coming days and weeks will be difficult for families across the UK. They consider themselves the experts in developing skills and bringing adventure to young people and have pulled together great indoor activity ideas for young people. From crafts to origami challenges, boredom will cease to exist with help from Scouts. Check out their website here.
With over five billion views across its YouTube channel, Blippi publishes fun and educational videos for children. Including videos that will help youngsters learn colours, shapes, numbers, nursery rhymes and much more, there will be a video to suit every child at any time of the day. Put a smile on your child’s face and help them learn by visiting the YouTube channel here.
Community
In times of self-isolation and social distancing, it’s important to keep connected. Here are the best online resources available:
An association with The Actors Centre, Talk Community offers peer to peer group support sessions for folks in the entertainment industry. They are hosting regular sessions throughout the week - they are open to everyone and you can access the sessions through Zoom. Check out their Twitter page here for more information.
ArtsMinds is a collaboration between BAPAM, Equity, The Stage and Spotlight – four entertainment industry organisations that collectively reach thousands of performers and creative practitioners working across all art forms. They are dedicated to their mission of helping those in the creative industries with mental health illnesses, and they have compiled an extensive page of links to great organisations that can offer support in this climate.You can visit the page here.
Mumsnet is the UK’s biggest network for parents, with around 10 million unique visitors per month clocking up around 100 million page views. So, it’s safe to say their website is a great resource for families in the current climate. Their diverse content includes educational information, advice for parents and guardians on how to cope with sensitive situations, how to keep your family active and entertained and much more. Check out their website here.
Fun & fit
Wind down and have fun with these online resources!
The Big Cat Sanctuary is built around four pillars of ethos: welfare, breeding, education and conservation of the world’s wild cats. They have been featured on the BBC and are bringing the most ferocious and beautiful big cats to your own home with a series of Facebook Live streams! Meet the stars of the show and keep the whole family entertained.
He’s the digital superstar that is now a household name across the world, sharing scrumptious recipes, exercise routines and guidance and now his daily P.E. classes for youngsters (and adults, too!). Every weekday at 9am, Joe Wicks a.k.a. The Body Coach will be going live on his YouTube channel with a half-hour P.E. class for children and their families, helping them keep a routine of fitness during this climate. Join the fun on his Youtube channel here.
Proudly declaring themselves as boredom busters, Beano’s website is filled with fun activities, games, quizzes, jokes and facts that will keep your kids entertained for hours. For those periods where they need a break from homeschooling and their exercises, a visit to the Beano website here will offer an enormous amount of fun - let’s defeat boredom together!
All-round funnyman David Walliams has taken the industry by storm with his hugely popular children’s books in recent years. His website is no different and boasts an amazing array of games, activities and funny stories that will put a smile on your whole family’s face. Visit the stylish page here and browse through the endless activities and games on offer.
When you think of simple, fun and easy activities to keep the kids entertained, you will most likely think of arts and crafts. From there, Hobbycraft is the ultimate resource! Their website is full to the brim with awesome games and activities for the whole family. Why not join their kids craft clubs or follow their guides on how to create edible slime, personalised mugs and Easter bunny trinkets? Check out their website here.
Performers
Information & Support
We have collated the most helpful links from UK institutions. Find out what help is out there!
*NEW* This festive period will be a difficult time for many across the country. Support is out there, and Shout 85258 is on hand to ensure the vulnerable have a space where they can feel safe. Shout 85285 is a free, confidential, 24/7 text-messaging support service for anyone who is anxious, stressed, depressed, suicidal or overwhelmed and who need immediate support. You can text Shout to 85258 for free 24/7 support in the UK.
*NEW* Black Minds Matter UK connects Black individuals and families with free professional mental health resources - this includes professional Black therapists. They aim to make mental health topics more relevant and accessible for all Black people in the UK, removing the stigma and remodelling the services to be relevant to the Black community. You can find out more here.
*NEW* Our friends at BFI champion and diverse projects that reach new audiences, and they continue to support professionals during this climate. They have lots of funding opportunities, ranging from funding for film and TV development, skilling-up, international exhibitors, engagement opportunities between UK-based and international filmmakers and more. Find out more about BFI’s funding opportunities here.
Representing over 47,000 performers and creative practitioners, Equity has published a briefing that is intended to provide general advice for its members on returning to work in Live Performance. Equity’s briefing outlines what professionals need to know if they are working for other people or are working for themselves, ensuring they are as equipped as possible to return to work in this space. You can read their briefing here.
The UK government has recently released guidelines for professionals working in the performing arts industry, including arts organisations and venue operators and participants. To ensure the sector operates with the highest level of safety, they have provided crucial guidance for casting and auditions, managing venue capacity and important considerations for those at a higher risk, as well as PPE and how departments can work together without harm. You can read their guidelines in full here.
The UK arts industry has been heavily impacted by the pandemic, with many areas of the sector struggling to stay afloat. Following weeks of pressure to senior officials, the UK government has on 6th July unveiled a £1.57bn support package to help protect the futures of UK theatres, galleries, museums and other cultural venues. The grant is aimed at providing support for renowned venues and also local institutions. You can read more about the support package here.
The Theatre Artists Fund has been set up by the established charity Theatre Development Trust, with a donation from Netflix, and it provides emergency support for theatre workers and freelancers across the UK. The fund is for theatre professionals who are in need of urgent and critical financial support due to the devastating impact of Covid-19 on the theatre sector. You can find out more about the fund and make a donation here.
While our fantastic industry recovers, it is important to remember that help, support and guidance are out there. Leading charities for the creative industry have come together to centralise information about how and where you can access support if you work in the theatre industry. Check the page out here.
The current climate is an incredibly tricky time for many of us. However, it is important to remember that there is support out there and that these unprecedented times will soon pass. Citizens Advice detail methods of support if you are struggling with living costs, such as help from the government and your local council. Visit their website here for more information.
Voluntary Arts works to promote and increase active participation in creative activities across the country. They recently launched #CreativeNetwork - a daily online get-together open to anyone involved in our industry who would welcome the opportunity to talk to others about dealing with the current situation. Sessions happen every weekday and you can find out more information here.
Playing Sane is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the relationship between mental health and acting, offering information for performers, their colleagues and carers across the industry. Starting on 13th April, they will be launching a temporary service linking up individuals from the industry with mental health professionals who can offer a free, brief intervention for people having difficulties dealing with the current situation. If you feel you need any help, please visit their website here.
It is no understatement that these unprecedented times are providing many hurdles for professionals in the industry, especially those that are self-employed. Do not fret, there is help out there. This guide from MoneySavingExpert.com looks at your rights at work for the employed, self-employed and others, including who's eligible for furlough, and also what help is out there from the state. You can find out more information here.
As you know, the NHS is urging people to stay at home as much as possible. You should only leave your house to shop for basic necessities, to do one form of exercise a day, if you have any medical needs, to provide care or help a vulnerable person and to travel to and from work. Hygiene is also extremely important at this moment in time, the advice is to wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. You can read the full NHS advice here.
The UK Government is keeping us up to date with the latest stats. While it’s important to be informed, many mental health professionals are also advising not to read the news too much as it can cause a feeling of anxiety. To find out more about the recent government action and the regulations that have been put in place to reduce the risk of further human-to-human transmission, click here.
Our friends at Equity are offering their members advice on work and contracts as well as mental health support. Information is changing daily so it’s important to check their website regularly to understand your entitlement to the different levels of financial support available during the Coronavirus outbreak and how to claim.
The Dancers Career Development are still offering support for professional dancers, delivered remotely these programmes offer a wealth of information to the dancing community. To find out more about their One to One Conversations and Personal and Career Coaching sessions across the UK, click here.
Our friends at the BFI have set up a Q&A resource with all the information and guidance they have on COVID-19 and its impact on the screen sector at large – this information is also for freelancers, exhibitors and productions. On their page, you will find more information on resources and support made available by Government and other stakeholders for freelancers and self-employed.
Education
As we all self-isolate at home, you might want to use your new found free time to develop your skills with these online resources.
Christopher David Mitchell is an expert vocal coach and he has been helping performers reach their fullest vocal potential for years. Christopher is on hand to ensure you stay on top of your craft and develop your vocals during lockdown! His YouTube channel is full of warm up exercises, tips for singers and so much more. Check it out here!
A huge online community of performing artists in the UK, The Hustle continues to be a great hub for talented professionals to engage with each other and learn more about the industry. This climate is no different! They are offering a whole host of free live classes and workshops that you can enjoy from home. Go on, develop your craft this lockdown.
Prep Your Rep LDN is a bespoke online service that is designed to help ‘prep your repertoire’ - meaning theatre performers have access to useful advice from professionals. The talented team continue to offer support and guidance for performers, and they are hosting various Instagram Lives, designed to help you in your career.
Established in 1970 and dedicated to emerging artists and providing quality productions for a diverse range of audience, King’s Head Theatre may have closed its doors but it is still acting as a positive light in the industry. Their team and incredible contacts in the industry are going live on Facebook and Instagram every day, discussing insightful topics and answering all of your questions. Check them out here.
HighTide is a theatre company and charity based in East Anglia that helps launch the careers of emerging British playwrights. They have launched a series of programmes that reflect their value and mission, including script-reading workshops and a playwright crisis support programme. Visit their website and stay involved in our fantastic industry here.
Are you a voice-over artist looking to develop your career? Or are you an actor who would like to learn how to become a voice-over professional? Gary Terzza is a voice-over artist and coach and he offers unique and interactive voice-over masterclasses for beginners online. Click here to find out more.
The National Theatre has made available, on Youtube, a collection of recorded live events, featuring interviews with actors, playwrights and directors about their work on stage, screen and at the National Theatre. Binge the good stuff and check their content out here!
It can’t get much more iconic than BAFTA, and their Guru Masterclasses are just what the doctor ordered in our current climate. A hub for inspirational career advice from the very best in film, games and television, browse through interviews with some of screen’s most renowned figures. Watch their sit-down videos filmed at BAFTA and listen to their podcasts on your daily outdoor exercise break. Check out the page here and have some much-needed chill time.
OpenLearn offers free online courses from a wide range of subjects. Some are based on Open University course materials, others are written specifically for OpenLearn. Find out more about the available courses here.
Since 2016, Voiceover Kickstart has been helping performers develop their voiceover careers. Their courses do not just cover 'How to become a voice actor', but how to sustain a long and healthy career in voice acting. You can now create a free account to access their programme. It will run for 7 days beginning the moment you hit the sign up button and each day you will be presented with new material.
This is also a great time for you to read our helpful guides and top tips from the experts on making a successful career as a performer. We cover everything including finding your first job, insider knowledge on auditions, explaining what everyone does on a film set, how to perfect a self-tape, finding an agent and much more.
Community
In these times of self-isolation and social distancing, it’s important to keep connected with fellow industry professionals. Here are the best online resources available:
Greenwich Theatre is one of London’s premiere Off-West End theatres and continues to support young and emerging talent. While all their performances have been suspended, they are hosting an online programme of interactive theatre opportunities for theatre-lovers. From Q&A sessions advice on monologues and so much more, their page is full of great activities.
If you are an established or budding composer and in need of a project to work in while self-isolating, this could be your perfect chance to remain involved in the industry and get the opportunity of a lifetime! The task is for composers to write ‘A Song for our Time’ - an original song to be recorded by West End stars and a huge virtual choir, with all proceeds going to Acting For Others. Find out more information here.
In association with The Actors Centre, Talk Community offers peer to peer group support sessions for folks in the entertainment industry. They are hosting regular sessions throughout the week - they are open to everyone and you can access the sessions through Zoom. Check out their Twitter page here for more information.
ArtsMinds is a collaboration between BAPAM, Equity, The Stage and Spotlight – four entertainment industry organisations that collectively reach thousands of performers and creative practitioners working across all art forms. They are dedicated to their mission of helping those in the creative industries with mental health illnesses, and they have compiled an extensive page of links to great organisations that can offer support in this climate.You can visit the page here.
We are very proud that we can bring together a wide network of talented industry professionals. Our forum is a great place for our members to have conversations, share wisdom, find work, collaborate and support each other. We highly recommend you to use this tool to join conversations and networks with fellow performers.
Fun & fit
While we highly recommend you to use your free time to develop your craft, it’s also very important to wind down to keep yourself physically and mentally healthy.
Andrew Lloyd Webber's family of seven theatres in London's West End may have temporarily shut their doors, but you can still enjoy the world of theatre from your own home. LW Theatres has created dozens of public playlists on their Spotify page, rounding up some of the theatre industry’s best soundtracks. If you’re in need of a pick me up, check the playlists out here.
While we may not be able to remain a physical part of our fantastic industry, there is still a whole host of great platforms that can inspire and entertain you during lockdown. Check out BBC’s Performance Live website where there is a variety of great videos from talented performers and filmmakers across the industry.
Just because we’re at home doesn’t mean theatre can’t still be life! If you’re in need of a pick me up during these trying times, check out the incredible content on The Show Must Go On YouTube channel. They have a whole host of performances from London’s West End across the years and they are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
TimeOut has aptly temporarily rebranded as ‘TimeIn’, and they are still on hand to provide us with great sources of entertainment and experiences that will keep our minds active. If you’re in need of an activity that is going to get your adrenaline pumping, then why not check out their list of the best virtual escape rooms? We’ll meet you in there!
The iconic Somerset House is London’s working arts centre, and they continue to keep their community engaged during these unprecedented times. Their online platform ‘Transmissions’ commissions artists and brings people together to share their work within a DIY TV show format. Browse through the most compelling content here.
In these unprecedented times, it may seem that bad news is unavoidable. What did the doctor order? John Krasinski. To be more specific, John Krasinski’s brand new YouTube channel, #SomeGoodNews! For when you’re feeling a little blue and in need of a pick me up from Scranton’s most handsome paper salesman, check out his videos here. With heartwarming stories from across the globe, have a little smile to perk your day right up.
For those long days spent self-isolating, it can be difficult to let your creative juices run wild. Getty Museum in L.A. is on hand to help with this! Recently they asked their community to recreate at home iconic paintings that are currently in the museum. The result? Well, check them out for yourself here. This link may contain images of adorable pets, cute kids and adults with buckets on their heads.
Royal Academy of Dance continues to connect and inspire dancers of all backgrounds. While their doors may be shut, they are hugely active on their YouTube channel, bringing ballet to the masses - beginners are welcome! If you have some spare time on your hands and would love to develop a new hobby, then visit their channel. They have a great video on beginners ballet for adults here!
Shakespeare’s Globe, the world-renowned performing arts venue, cultural attraction and education centre, may have temporarily closed their buildings, but they continue to develop their online content during these trying times. You can virtually-attend their productions online - every two weeks they will show a new play for free! Enjoy their content here.
If you’re going a little quarantine-crazy and in need of some light relief, we have found pure joy in a single video. Demonstrating solidarity in the industry and keeping spirits high, 70 West End stars have come together to perform Les Misérables’ ‘Do You Hear The People Sing’. Look out for your favourite stars here and join in the singalong at home!
Are you looking for new ways to exercise and keep fit from home? The NHS recommends one hour of exercise a day and dancing is one of the most enjoyable ways to get moving. From hip-hop to the foxtrot, dance fever is sweeping the nation, fuelled by popular TV shows such as Strictly Come Dancing and Britain's Got Talent. Regular dancing is great for losing weight, maintaining strong bones, improving posture and muscle strength, increasing balance and coordination, and beating stress. The NHS has a list of the best places to find dance classes.
As great cinephiles, how we could we not include a list of films to watch. The Guardian has published a list of the 100 best movies since 2000. Gangsters, superheroes, lovers, peasants, techies, Tenenbaums and free-falling astronauts – they’re all in there. Click here to read more.
During these unprecedented times, the theatre community has come together to provide viewers from around the world the opportunity to stream select theatre productions for free. Check out this updating list of musicals, plays, and operas!
Film, TV and Stage Crew
Information & Support
We have collated the most helpful links from UK institutions. Find out what help is out there!
*NEW* This festive period will be a difficult time for many across the country. Support is out there, and Shout 85258 is on hand to ensure the vulnerable have a space where they can feel safe. Shout 85285 is a free, confidential, 24/7 text-messaging support service for anyone who is anxious, stressed, depressed, suicidal or overwhelmed and who need immediate support. You can text Shout to 85258 for free 24/7 support in the UK.
*NEW* Black Minds Matter UK connects Black individuals and families with free professional mental health resources - this includes professional Black therapists. They aim to make mental health topics more relevant and accessible for all Black people in the UK, removing the stigma and remodelling the services to be relevant to the Black community. You can find out more here.
*NEW* Our friends at BFI champion and diverse projects that reach new audiences, and they continue to support professionals during this climate. They have lots of funding opportunities, ranging from funding for film and TV development, skilling-up, international exhibitors, engagement opportunities between UK-based and international filmmakers and more. Find out more about BFI’s funding opportunities here.
*NEW* Streaming giant and industry heavyweight Netflix could be your ticket to success in your career. Their newly announced Documentary Talent Fund has arrived to help find the next generation of filmmakers, as they believe great stories can come from anyone, anywhere - and that viewers want to see their lives reflected on screen. All you have to do is submit a short synopsis about your documentary idea, and they may help bring it to life! Find out more here.
The UK government has recently released guidelines for professionals working in the performing arts industry, including arts organisations and venue operators and participants. To ensure the sector operates with the highest level of safety, they have provided crucial guidance for casting and auditions, managing venue capacity and important considerations for those at a higher risk, as well as PPE and how departments can work together without harm. You can read their guidelines in full here.
The UK arts industry has been heavily impacted by the pandemic, with many areas of the sector struggling to stay afloat. Following weeks of pressure to senior officials, the UK government has on 6th July unveiled a £1.57bn support package to help protect the futures of UK theatres, galleries, museums and other cultural venues. The grant is aimed at providing support for renowned venues and also local institutions. You can read more about the support package here.
The Theatre Artists Fund has been set up by the established charity Theatre Development Trust, with a donation from Netflix, and it provides emergency support for theatre workers and freelancers across the UK. The fund is for theatre professionals who are in need of urgent and critical financial support due to the devastating impact of Covid-19 on the theatre sector. You can find out more about the fund and make a donation here.
Despite many areas of our industry remaining shut down, progress is being made as we turn our efforts to reopening productions across the UK. A new report has been released that addresses the management of the risks COVID-19 has in production making. The report here outlines vital advice and information for producers, broadcasters and more.
Many advancements are being made in the creative industry and steps are in place to ensure productions run safely and smoothly. APA (Advertising Producers Association) has released Shooting Guidelines for commercials, with the purpose of enabling production companies to take responsible steps to ensure the safety of everyone present on set during a shoot.
The current climate is an incredibly tricky time for many of us. However, it is important to remember that there is support out there and that these unprecedented times will soon pass. Citizens Advice detail methods of support if you are struggling with living costs, such as help from the government and your local council. Visit their website here for more information.
Voluntary Arts works to promote and increase active participation in creative activities across the country. They recently launched #CreativeNetwork - a daily online get-together open to anyone involved in our industry who would welcome the opportunity to talk to others about dealing with the current situation. Sessions happen every weekday and you can find out more information here.
It is no understatement that these unprecedented times are providing many hurdles for professionals in the industry, especially those that are self-employed. Do not fret, there is help out there. This guide from MoneySavingExpert.com looks at your rights at work for the employed, self-employed and others, including who's eligible for furlough, and also what help is out there from the state. You can find out more information here.
As you know, the NHS is urging people to stay at home as much as possible. You should only leave your house to shop for basic necessities, to do one form of exercise a day, if you have any medical needs, to provide care or help a vulnerable person and to travel to and from work. Hygiene is also extremely important at this moment in time, the advice is to wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. You can read the full NHS advice here.
The UK Government is keeping us up to date with the latest stats. While it’s important to be informed, many mental health professionals are also advising not to read the news too much as it can cause a feeling of anxiety. To find out more about the recent government action and the regulations that have been put in place to reduce the risk of further human-to-human transmission, click here.
A membership organisation that sets and upholds standards, safety and compliance for theatre and live performance, ABTT are dedicated to helping the industry. They have created a page with relevant resources, free online training courses, events and activities that people are offering remotely, via Skype, phone or live streamed. Take a look here and check out their helpful resources page.
Masterclass are continuously on hand to provide support, training and advice for those aged 16-30 with an interest in theatre. They have an extensive page of resources, filled with online training courses, events and activities that people are offering via Skype, phone or live-streamed. Wanting some light-relief? They have also created an area that links you to never-before-seen footage of famous productions. You can visit the page here.
Maintaining their progressive work and vision for equality and the fair treatment for all those affected by mental illness, Rethink has organised a hugely important page giving you support and resources during this difficult time. Their advice includes pages dedicated on how to cope with your mental health during this pandemic, advice for carers with mental illness, ways to stay active in the house, changes to the Mental Health Act and more. You can visit the page here.
Our friends at the BFI have set up a Q&A resource with all the information and guidance they have on COVID-19 and its impact on the screen sector at large – this information is also for freelancers, exhibitors and productions. On their page, you will find more information on resources and support made available by Government and other stakeholders for freelancers and self-employed.
Representing over 40,000 staff, contract and freelance workers in the media and entertainment industries, Bectu is the union for creative ambition. Their members work in non-performance roles in the creative industries and Bectu continues to support them in any way they can during these trying times. They have created a page dedicated to providing useful information and resources for their members, including how to access benefits, advice for those who are self-employed and more. Visit the page here for more information.
With over 7,000 members, Directors UK is the professional association of directors working with the moving image in the UK. Directors UK ensures that the work of directors is recognised, offering a powerful and united voice in the industry. During this current climate, they have cancelled their in-person events, but they are still on hand to help their members. Their website has been updated to reflect this additional support.
Education
As we all self-isolate at home, you might want to use your new found free time to develop your skills with these online resources.
BFI Film Academy continues to run courses and resources for young people wanting to take their first steps into the film industry. This year they are going virtual and their Upskilling in Isolation series are designed to support young, aspiring filmmakers and help them develop their skills and projects from home. Find out more here about the sessions, as well as individual mentoring and workshop sessions - The Mandy Network are proud partners!
ACCESS:VFX is a global, industry-led, non-profit in the VFX, animation and games industries. With its primary focus of pursuing and encouraging inclusion, diversity, awareness and opportunity for professionals in the industry, they continue to host insightful podcasts. You can check out their YouTube page here, and their recent video details how you can work in the USA and Canada, with guidance from top experts.
*NEW* ScreenSkills is an industry-led skills body for the UK film and TV industries, ensuring professionals and the sector have the skills and talent they need. They have launched their new and free online training module: Coronavirus Basic Awareness on Production Training. This module is designed for freelancers and crew, highlighting their personal responsibility in reducing the risk of coronavirus and preparing them for the safety measures productions are taking. You can find out more about it here.
Friends in Film is a network of go-getter film industry professionals who are located in major metropolitan areas of the US, as well as London, Sydney, Vancouver and Toronto. Their incredible network can allow you to get established in your chosen industry in no time. If you’re looking for insight into the industry from talented professionals, Friends in Film’s mentorship program is for you - check it out here!
The National Theatre has made available, on Youtube, a collection of recorded live events, featuring interviews with actors, playwrights and directors about their work on stage, screen and at the National Theatre. Binge the good stuff and check their content out here!
It can’t get much more iconic than BAFTA, and their Guru Masterclasses are just what the doctor ordered in our current climate. A hub for inspirational career advice from the very best in film, games and television, browse through interviews with some of screen’s most renowned figures. Watch their sit-down videos filmed at BAFTA and listen to their podcasts on your daily outdoor exercise break. Check out the page here and have some much-needed chill time.
Jointly owned by The Open University and The SEEK Group, Future Learn offers a diverse selection of courses from leading universities and cultural institutions from around the world. These are delivered one step at a time and are accessible on mobile, tablet and desktop, so you can fit learning around your life. They provide specialised courses for the current climate, including how to provide continuity for students, managing COVID-19 in general practice and much more. Visit their page here.
The home of free learning, The Open University delivers bite-sized learning experiences designed to fit easily into our current lives, including 900+ short courses, thousands of articles, quizzes and interactive games and hundreds of educational videos and audios. Check out their catalogue of free courses here.
This is also a great time for you to read our helpful guides and top tips from the experts on making a successful career in the film industry. We cover everything from finding your first job in film, insider knowledge on auditions, explaining what everyone does on a film set, how to perfect a self-tape, finding an agent and much more.
The iconic BFI continues to bring exclusive content to their audience. While their Southbank cinema venue may have temporarily closed its doors, their YouTube channel continues to provide quality content to the British film industry. From Screen Talks and Filmmaker Q&As to film trailers and interviews, their channel is offering compelling and engaging content.
The Royal Television Society (RTS) is Britain’s leading forum for television and related media. They host an annual awards ceremony, internationally recognised for quality and originality. With all in-person activity postponed due to the pandemic, their YouTube channel continues to be a dedicated space for accessing insightful content from the industry, including interviews with notable figures and engaging Q&As and panel discussions.
Community
In these times of self-isolation and social distancing, it’s important to keep connected with fellow industry professionals. Here are the best online resources available:
If you are an established or budding composer and in need of a project to work in while self-isolating, this could be your perfect chance to remain involved in the industry and get the opportunity of a lifetime! The task is for composers to write ‘A Song for our Time’ - an original song to be recorded by West End stars and a huge virtual choir, with all proceeds going to Acting For Others. Find out more information here.
An association with The Actors Centre, Talk Community offers peer to peer group support sessions for folks in the entertainment industry. They are hosting regular sessions throughout the week - they are open to everyone and you can access the sessions through Zoom. Check out their Twitter page here for more information.
ArtsMinds is a collaboration between BAPAM, Equity, The Stage and Spotlight – four entertainment industry organisations that collectively reach thousands of performers and creative practitioners working across all art forms. They are dedicated to their mission of helping those in the creative industries with mental health illnesses, and they have compiled an extensive page of links to great organisations that can offer support in this climate.You can visit the page here.
This Meetup group hosts regular networking events with the aim of encouraging filmmakers to meet and build professional relationships. The group usually holds workshops, panel discussions and courses, but in our current situation, they are beginning to offer webinars for those in the creative industries. You can learn more about the group here.
Fun & fit
While we highly recommend you to use your free time to develop your craft, it’s also very important to wind down to keep yourself physically and mentally healthy.
Now that we all have a little more time on our hands, it’s safe to say our kitchens have never had so much use. Are you in need of some inspiration on culinary delights you can whip up? BBC Good Food has a variety of mouthwatering recipes that are five ingredients or less! There’s no excuse to not cook up a storm.
TimeOut has aptly temporarily rebranded as ‘TimeIn’, and they are still on hand to provide us with great sources of entertainment and experiences that will keep our minds active. If you’re in need of an activity that is going to get your adrenaline pumping, then why not check out their list of the best virtual escape rooms? We’ll meet you in there!
The iconic Somerset House is London’s working arts centre, and they continue to keep their community engaged during these unprecedented times. Their online platform ‘Transmissions’ commissions artists and brings people together to share their work within a DIY TV show format. Browse through the most compelling content here.
In these unprecedented times, it may seem that bad news is unavoidable. What did the doctor order? John Krasinski. To be more specific, John Krasinski’s brand new YouTube channel, #SomeGoodNews! For when you’re feeling a little blue and in need of a pick me up from Scranton’s most handsome paper salesman, check out his videos here. With heartwarming stories from across the globe, have a little smile to perk your day right up.
This hugely popular YouTube channel offers fitness tutorials, workouts, and exercises to help you on your journey to healthy living, weight loss, and stress relief. With classes hosted by some of the USA’s most influential professional trainers, the channel has amassed a cult following for those wanting to stay fit at home. Already enjoyed your daily outdoor exercise for the day? Check out their videos here and beat the blues one workout at a time.
Skillshare believes in the seemingly simple act of creating and understands it can be a force for growth, change, and discovery in people’s lives. As an online learning community, it is the perfect hub to utilise while self-isolating. If you are in need of some vitamin D and fresh air, why not browse through their online gardening classes? They are free, super easy to follow and are the perfect distraction. Turn your thumb green and check out their classes here.
Are you feeling crafty? There is no better way to entertain the kids (or yourself), while creating something useful, than by getting stuck into crafts. The Crafts Channel uploads regular online masterclasses for crafting techniques, with hundreds of video demonstrations that are jam-packed with ideas and inspiration for you to try from the comfort of your own home. From stitching to knitting and card making to origami, your boredom ends here.
Child Performers
Information & Support
We have collated the most helpful links from UK institutions. Find out what help is out there!
*NEW* This festive period will be a difficult time for many across the country. Support is out there, and Shout 85258 is on hand to ensure the vulnerable have a space where they can feel safe. Shout 85285 is a free, confidential, 24/7 text-messaging support service for anyone who is anxious, stressed, depressed, suicidal or overwhelmed and who need immediate support. You can text Shout to 85258 for free 24/7 support in the UK.
*NEW* Black Minds Matter UK connects Black individuals and families with free professional mental health resources - this includes professional Black therapists. They aim to make mental health topics more relevant and accessible for all Black people in the UK, removing the stigma and remodelling the services to be relevant to the Black community. You can find out more here.
*NEW* Our friends at BFI champion and diverse projects that reach new audiences, and they continue to support professionals during this climate. They have lots of funding opportunities, ranging from funding for film and TV development, skilling-up, international exhibitors, engagement opportunities between UK-based and international filmmakers and more. Find out more about BFI’s funding opportunities here.
YoungMinds is a mental health charity helping lead the fight for a future where all young people are supported and empowered. Self-isolating can have a tremendously negative impact on one’s mental health, and they provided useful advice on their website on how to cope with this.
As you know, the NHS is urging people to stay at home as much as possible. You should only leave your house to shop for basic necessities, to do one form of exercise a day, if you have any medical needs, to provide care or help a vulnerable person and to travel to and from work. Hygiene is also extremely important at this moment in time, the advice is to wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. You can read the full NHS advice here.
The UK Government is keeping us up to date with the latest stats. While it’s important to be informed, many mental health professionals are also advising not to read the news too much as it can cause a feeling of anxiety. To find out more about the recent government action and the regulations that have been put in place to reduce the risk of further human-to-human transmission, click here.
Pearson provides a blend of content, curriculum, assessment, training and information systems to make learning more engaging and effective. Their priority is to support students and teachers during this time of uncertainty, ensuring the hard work young people have achieved up to this stage will be worthwhile. Pearson continues to work with the Department for Education, Ofqual and the other exam boards, and has a useful page centred on support for parents and carers, online learning and news regarding qualifications. You can view the page here.
Dedicated to helping the mental wellbeing of anyone who needs help, SupportLine provides a confidential telephone helpline offering emotional support to any individual on any issue. The Helpline is primarily a preventative service and aims to support people who are socially isolated, vulnerable, at risk groups and victims of any form of abuse. In this current climate, it is hugely important to understand that support is out there and only a phone call away. If you need to speak with someone, please find all the information you need on their page.
The Children’s Society is committed to ensuring no child should ever feel alone. They are dedicated to their work and continue to help those in need during this climate. Their services currently risk assessing cases and are continuing to support young people in the best way possible. They have postponed all volunteering activities that involve people coming into personal contact with others, but host a lot of useful information on their website. You can visit their site here.
Education
Here you will find a selection of educational resources for Young Performers of all ages.
*NEW* A household and much-loved name across the world, Scholastic has been bringing beneficial educational resources and materials to families for decades. Just because we aren’t allowed outside doesn’t mean great resources aren’t still available. Their website is packed with activities, stories and games that are great for kids and parents as we navigate these unique times. Check it out here and keep your kids entertained.
For over 100 years Official London Theatre has been an integral part of London’s theatre industry. These unprecedented times are no different, and they continue to offer fun and engaging ways in which children can stay entertained at home. Visit their dedicated page here - it’s full of downloadable Disney activities, Shaesperea learning resources and much more.
Mousetrap is a theatre education charity dedicated to enriching the lives of young people. While theatre’s across the country may be closed, the show must go on! They have launched their #EveryHomeATheatre campaign that provides households with theatre-based fun and creative learning activities. From monologue slams to dance workshops, stay on top of and engaged with the theatre industry here!
BBC expands its virtual learning offering and has launched Bitesize Daily. Collaborating with teachers and education specialists, a slew of famous faces will take part in 14 weeks of curriculum-based learning for kids across the UK, including Professor Brian Cox, Danny Dyer, Sir David Attenborough and more. Check it out here!
British Youth Music Theatre is a leading music theatre company for young people and supported by Arts Council England. They remain to be very active on their YouTube channel, offering engaging content for young people interested in the industry. Beginning last week, they have started a series of webinars with professionals, discussing all things theatre and answering loads of questions. You can visit their YouTube channel here.
Based in Surrey, Stage & Screen School may have closed its doors on their weekly acting and musical theatre classes & holiday workshops, but they continue to provide courses for young people in other ways. They have just launched their 12-week Summer Term Online Course, providing a great insight into the industry for young performers as well as engaging and beneficial activities. Find out more about the course here.
BBC is continuing to provide relevant updates on our current climate, as well as useful links, information and support for families and children who are in need of guidance. They are regularly sharing articles and advice, including tips on successful homeschooling, great educational source materials, technological advancements that help children stay on top of their schoolwork. You can find out more information here.
Ever on hand to help young people, parents and guardians, BBC Bitesize continues to publish useful resource materials. Their website is split into those at primary, secondary and post-secondary education levels. Their app is also super useful for those wanting their child to engage with a topic in a more relaxed environment. Check out the website here.
Twinkl proudly creates educational resources that can be used at each step of a child's learning journey. Their teacher-created resources provide entire schemes of work, lesson planning and assessments right through to online educational games, augmented reality and more. With over 525,000 resources and a website that is updated daily, this is your ticket to a great homeschooling period for your child.
Cleverly declaring their current focus ‘The Great Indoors’, Scouts understand that the coming days and weeks will be difficult for families across the UK. They consider themselves the experts in developing skills and bringing adventure to young people and have pulled together great indoor activity ideas for young people. From crafts to origami challenges, boredom will cease to exist with help from Scouts. Check out their website here.
With over five billion views across its YouTube channel, Blippi publishes fun and educational videos for children. Including videos that will help youngsters learn colours, shapes, numbers, nursery rhymes and much more, there will be a video to suit every child at any time of the day. Put a smile on your child’s face and help them learn by visiting the YouTube channel here.
Community
In these times of self-isolation and social distancing, it’s important to keep connected. Here are the best online resources available:
An association with The Actors Centre, Talk Community offers peer to peer group support sessions for folks in the entertainment industry. They are hosting regular sessions throughout the week - they are open to everyone and you can access the sessions through Zoom. Check out their Twitter page here for more information.
ArtsMinds is a collaboration between BAPAM, Equity, The Stage and Spotlight – four entertainment industry organisations that collectively reach thousands of performers and creative practitioners working across all art forms. They are dedicated to their mission of helping those in the creative industries with mental health illnesses, and they have compiled an extensive page of links to great organisations that can offer support in this climate.You can visit the page here.
Mumsnet is the UK’s biggest network for parents, with around 10 million unique visitors per month clocking up around 100 million page views. So, it’s safe to say their website is a great resource for families in the current climate. Their diverse content includes educational information, advice for parents and guardians on how to cope with sensitive situations, how to keep your family active and entertained and much more. Check out their website here.
Fun & fit
Wind down and have fun with these online resources!
The Big Cat Sanctuary is built around four pillars of ethos: welfare, breeding, education and conservation of the world’s wild cats. They have been featured on the BBC and are bringing the most ferocious and beautiful big cats to your own home with a series of Facebook Live streams! Meet the stars of the show and keep the whole family entertained.
He’s the digital superstar that is now a household name across the world, sharing scrumptious recipes, exercise routines and guidance and now his daily P.E. classes for youngsters (and adults, too!). Every weekday at 9am, Joe Wicks a.k.a. The Body Coach will be going live on his YouTube channel with a half-hour P.E. class for children and their families, helping them keep a routine of fitness during this climate. Join the fun on his Youtube channel here.
Proudly declaring themselves as boredom busters, Beano’s website is filled with fun activities, games, quizzes, jokes and facts that will keep your kids entertained for hours. For those periods where they need a break from homeschooling and their exercises, a visit to the Beano website here will offer an enormous amount of fun - let’s defeat boredom together!
All-round funnyman David Walliams has taken the industry by storm with his hugely popular children’s books in recent years. His website is no different and boasts an amazing array of games, activities and funny stories that will put a smile on your whole family’s face. Visit the stylish page here and browse through the endless activities and games on offer.
When you think of simple, fun and easy activities to keep the kids entertained, you will most likely think of arts and crafts. From there, Hobbycraft is the ultimate resource! Their website is full to the brim with awesome games and activities for the whole family. Why not join their kids craft clubs or follow their guides on how to create edible slime, personalised mugs and Easter bunny trinkets? Check out their website here.