During the #CoronavirusCrisis an employed person on a salary of £30k will receive £24k pa, but a self-employed person can apply for a  means tested £94 per week, which would be £4,800 per annum. We need equality in how self-employed people are supported, 80% of their medium wage. 

 The Visual Artists Association represents self employed arts & creative business owners across the U.K. Currently there is little or no support for over 200,000 small micro businesses (less than 10 employees) in the creative industries; artists, online gallery owners, freelancers, designers, event organisers, art tutors and craft makers. 

These businesses contribute billions to the U.K. economy. Many of these long standing established businesses won’t survive without immediate support. Please help to urgently to change this by providing income protection equal to employed workers. 

Many rely on events for the sales of artwork, along side other companies using their creative services to secure their income. Without immediate income protection they will go into administration, face personal financial ruin, and there will be a knock on effect to the rest of the economy.  

Art holds a crucial role for mental health benefits for everyone. Even in times of austerity it is a sign of a civilized society. We request that the government offer immediate and accessible business financial support (grants and income support).

If you believe everyone should have access to guaranteed support & income protection to cover basic essential living items please support this petition.