The fund is also intended to assist and protect diverse emerging talent and underrepresented groups already facing barriers to staying in the industry, including Black, Asian and minority ethnic creatives; women; those living outside of London; and people with a disability. It is hoped that this support will help to reduce the risk of widening inequality across the creative industries as a result of the economic fallout from the pandemic.

Netflix has now donated a total of £1.75 million to the Film and TV Charity since the start of the pandemic, following an initial contribution of £1million in March to enable the charity together with the BFI to establish the COVID-19 Film and TV Emergency Relief Fund. Netflix subsequently donated a further £150,000 to top up the fund.

Netflix also helped to establish the new Theatre Artists Fund, with a £500,000 donation. Spearheaded by Sam Mendes, it offered financial support to theatre workers across the UK, particularly those from underrepresented groups that have been disproportionately affected by the crisis.

Anne Mensah, Vice President, Original Scripted Series at Netflix, said: “Netflix owes so much to the electricians, carpenters, make-up artists, camera crews and others that make our productions possible. That’s why we have been proud to support the Film and TV Charity’s incredible efforts to see the industry through these difficult times.

“We know that those from diverse backgrounds have been disproportionately impacted by Covid and we simply cannot afford to lose this talent from our sector. I strongly encourage people in the industry that are struggling and feel like they fit the criteria to apply as soon as possible.”

Since the start of the crisis, the Film and TV Charity has distributed more than £3.3million in financial support and launched a range of new mental well being services to support thousands of workers in the UK film, television, and cinema industry.

The fund closes on October 12th.  Apply now.