UK creative leaders demand emergency funding for COVID-hit cultural sector

More than 400 notable personalities from the UK's creative industry, such as artist Anish Kapoor, Tate's director Maria Balshaw, and actor Stephen Fry, have put their names to an open letter. This letter, initiated by the Creative Industries Federation, is aimed at the chancellor and the secretary of state for digital, culture, media, and sport, urging them to provide immediate financial aid for cultural and creative sectors hit hard by COVID-19. Research from the federation shows that over half of creative professionals and organizations have faced a total loss of income, with financial reserves likely to run out by the end of June. CEO Caroline Norbury pointed out that although current support is valued, many require urgent cash to get through this tough time.