WIREDGOV

We know that there is lots of discussion and concern about the potential effects of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. We’ve heard from organisations and people we fund as well as those in the process of applying for funding asking for advice and guidance.

The current guidance from government is that it is business as usual. At present there are no government ordered bans on live events, sporting or music events, public meetings or any other gatherings. There is also specific COVID-19 guidance for employers and businesses.

However, you might have seen that the government published an action plan on 3 March 2020. In later stages of the plan they outline further possible actions: for example population distancing strategies such as school closures, encouraging more home working and reducing the number of large-scale gatherings in order to slow the spread of the disease – ensuring the country’s ability to continue to run as normally as possible.

Plan and prepare

We advise everyone that although the risk remains moderate it would be prudent to prepare and consider adjustments to your business plans if we move into the later stages of the government’s action plan. Consider the level of disruption that might be caused. If you are a public facing venue you may have to close for a period of time, cancel planned events or take action if staff are taken ill.

Our support

We understand that these are challenging and uncertain times and whilst we do not have a pot of money available for intervention for something so unprecedented – we urge you to contact us if you have concerns. We will continue to work closely with colleagues at DCMS to advocate for the sector and pass intelligence in both directions.

Keeping you updated

If you are a National Portfolio Organisation or Music Education Hub then please contact your Relationship Manager if you have a specific question or concern about your organisation and the effects of the Coronavirus.

We have also set up a central email address for all other queries. Please contact us at: Coronavirus-queries@artscouncil.org.uk

We will be collating all queries on a central basis. This will make it easier for us to feedback to DCMS about whether our sector requires further guidance.

We’ll also keep our social media channels and website updated as and when guidance and information changes.

Please do keep in touch

The best way to keep abreast of the latest is at: www.gov.uk/coronavirus.

In addition, more information on specific areas can be found here:

• Advice for patients is available on NHS Choices regarding symptoms 
• Public Health England have published a Q&A about the virus on their blog
• Guidance for employers and businesses
• FCO travel advice