Film Hub North sets up resilience fund for exhibitors in Yorkshire and elsewhere

The organisation works with exhibitors throughout the region, including those in Yorkshire, to develop a larger, more diverse audience for British, independent and international film.

But with cinemas currently closed and events postponed, it has said it is possible to achieve its aim in the usual ways.

"This fund will help organisations respond to the financial impacts of closure periods caused by Covid-19 and be in a position to reopen and reconnect with audiences in the future.

"Grants can support a variety of activity related to exhibitors' resilience plans and, unlike our regular funding, can be used to maintain core assets."

The Resilience Fund is open to hub members who can demonstrate immediate financial need and a track record of "audience-facing" activity that aligns with the BFI Film Audience Network's priorities.

However, organisations that have been awarded BFI Audience Fund Organisational Awards for 2020/21 are not eligible to apply.

Applications have opened today and close on May 6 2020.

To apply, email its team at [email protected] and, where applicable, someone will be in touch.

Dr Sam McKay, who describes himself as a community artist, theatre maker and researcher, says he has taken inspiration from those who have set up similar prokects in Liverpool and Birmingham to support freelancers.

So far his campaign has raised more than half of its £2,000 target at https://www.gofundme.com/f/leeds-creatives-corona-virus-impact-fund