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  1. FAQs

Developing Your Career

Getting into the arts and creative industries can be tough, so we've put together a short series of links to organisations, opportunities and advice to help you on your way. Visit this page for current opportunities at Shape. 

Further resources are available through the Unlimited website, a Shape-led project run in partnership with Artsadmin who, in turn, list their own resources artist development resources here.

 

Access to Work

Information and links about the Access to Work support scheme.

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What is Access To Work?

Access to Work (AtW) is a Government programme delivered by Job Centre Plus which provides advice and a financial grant for practical support to overcome work-related barriers due to disability. It is available to customers with a disability who are in employment or with a job to start.

An Access to Work grant can pay for practical support if you have a disability, health or mental health condition to help you:

  • start working
  • stay in work
  • move into self-employment or start a business

How much you get depends on your circumstances.  

The money doesn’t have to be paid back and will not affect your other benefits.


For more detailed information, get in touch with Access to Work or have a look at www.gov.uk/access-to-work/overview - the official site of the Access to Work scheme. 

Access to Work Contact Details (London)

Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 0345 268 8489 
Textphone: 0345 608 8753

Operational Support Unit 
Harrow Jobcentre Plus 
Mail Handling Site A 
Wolverhampton  WV98 1JE 


You might also like to have a look at these other links as well:

General information about Access to Work

https://disabilityarts.online/atw/ and 

https://disabilityarts.online/magazine/news/disability-arts-online-and-arts-council-england-publish-guide-to-access-to-work-for-the-arts-and-cultural-sector/  - Giving updated information and cultural context for using this service; includes easy read information

https://weareunlimited.org.uk/accessing-access-work/ - Some personal experiences of Shape-supported staff

www.disabilityrightsuk.org/access-work - Disability Rights UK's fact-sheet on Access to Work.

http://base-uk.org/members/news/access-work-available-self-employed-people - Info about AtW for self-employed people, on BASE. 

www.scope.org.uk/support/disabled-people/work/access-to-work - Information of AtW, on Scope About Disability

www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjKK3BfSi84 - Subtitled / BSL You Tube video summary of access to work

www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApBtMmA4OqU -  Guide to Access to Work by Freedom of Speech, aimed at employers, but useful for employees too. 

Campaigns & information to improve Access to Work

www.disabilitynewsservice.com/?s=access+to+work - Articles about Access to Work on the Disability News Service

http://stopchanges2atw.com/ - Stop Changes 2 AtW - campaign site

www.deafatw.com/ - Deaf AtW campaign site "Information to help challenge Access to Work decisions".

Updates can be found at this link: www.deafatw.com/updates.html 

Published: 1st August, 2014

Updated: 14th November, 2019

Author:

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Artists' studio spaces in London

Links to art studio spaces and facilities in London

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Below is a list of art studio spaces and facilities in London. This page forms part of our resource on developing your career - click here to find out more.

ACAVA
ACAVA, the Association for Cultural Advancement through Visual Art, is an educational charity. ACAVA provides a comprehensive range of visual arts services, including the provision of studios and other facilities for professional artists, the mounting of exhibitions, the development of public art and community educational projects, training in the use of digital technology and a consultancy service.

ACME
Acme provides studio space for fine artists who are unable to afford to rent workspace on the open market. We currently support over 800 individual artists across Greater London.

APT Studios
APT is a registered charity committed to promoting the value of creativity through the visual arts. Located in South East London, APT supports an exceptional resource and facility for artists and the wider community With the provision of secure studios and high quality exhibition space as a cornerstone, APT aims to foster an environment where creativity may flourish, forging links and collaborations with other professional bodies both locally, nationally and internationally.

Artist Hive Studios
Artist Hive Studios (AHS) is a unique studio hub that fosters the development of an artist’s career, providing affordable studio spaces in a creative environment. AHS is a space run by artists for artists. Creative studio and desk spaces in the heart of Tottenham only 5 mins walk from White Hart Lane Overground station and 10 mins walk from the new Tottenham Spurs stadium.

Artist's Studio Finder
Looking for a studio? Then use Artist's Studio Finder search facility. Search by size, price or location.  Make your selections. See what is available specific to your needs then contact the studio provider directly for further details.

Bow Arts
Arts educational charity in East London.  "The first choice for London’s emerging artists".   Studios, live-work accommodation and work opportunities.

Camden Collective
Collective is a registered charity offering workspace, courses and collaboration for a growing community of Creatives in the heart of Camden. Collective is migratory and builds on a legacy of successfully acquiring and re-purposing vacant and underused spaces.

We provide free hot-desking space and subsidised offices for start-ups and training academies in creative and digital skills. The Collective journey has been many things to many people from pop-up shops to career development, to commissioning public realm projects. We have an evolving model but our constant is the strong and ever growing community of young people, entrepreneurs and stakeholders who give strength and support to our next exciting stages of development

Cockpit Arts
If you're a talented designer-maker and looking to grow your business you have come to the right place.  The offer of a studio at Cockpit Arts is by selection and there is a two stage process. Full details including selection criteria, services and charges can be found in the Application Pack. Cockpit Arts is committed to equality of opportunity for all and we welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Creekside Artists Studios
Creekside Artists is an artist-run co-operative established in the year 2000.   Our space is divided into units, each housing 1 or 2 artists. The set-up is mainly open plan to encourage artist interaction and to foster an informal & sociably creative atmosphere. We actively promote our artists to the public through thrice-yearly Open Studio weekends & exhibitions (in June, September & December), free & open to all.   These events provide valuable exposure & education for both artist & public alike.

EuroArt studios
We are North London's largest artist led art studio and workspace complex providing affordable studios and workspaces for rent by artists, makers and creative practitioners. This cluster of creative practitioners fosters networking and internal collaboration.  It also provides an invaluable resource for information and advice. Proactively managed, we promote the work of our residents and often source opportunities for them. Euroart is a self-funded, not-for-profit, company limited by guarantee.   We are not recipient of any core funding.

Exchange
Formerly known as Artelier, Exchange is an online community, built on your real and online social networks, to help you find collaborators, extend your professional network and arrange temporary studios and apartment swaps.

Kindred Studios
In West Kilburn, London, classrooms have been converted into 175 individual and group studios. They are wheelchair accessible and have accessible toilets. There is a cafe, yoga classes and are pet friendly.

Oxo Tower Wharf
Oxo Tower Wharf, on London's South Bank, is home to studios for designer-makers and craftspeople. They have a number of spaces available for talented new tenants. These opportunities come at a pivotal time for Oxo as they re-focus on craft and design and seek talented makers to join them. These spaces are a studio and showroom in one, with opportunity for an open door to the public too! For detailed access information please contact them directly.

Second Floor Studios
London's largest single-site affordable studio space project. Second Floor Studios & Arts (SFSA) is a London-based membership organisation that supports the development of visual and fine art practice and craft and designer making by providing affordable studios and workshop spaces to its members. Founded by Matthew Wood in 1997, SFSA was established as a direct response from personal struggles to find affordable studio space locally in South East London.

Somerset House Studios
Somerset House Studios is a new experimental work-space, within Somerset House, connecting around 300 artists, makers & thinkers, with audiences.  The Studios will also offer residents a growing programme of development, employment and commissioning opportunities, alongside the opportunity to present work within its curated public programme.

Space Studios
A studio provider since 1968, SPACE currently runs 18 buildings across London (3 of which are SPACE-owned), providing workspace for over 700 artists.  To qualify for a studio you will need to be registered. 

Wimbledon Art Studios
Join Wimbledon Art Studios in London and become part of a friendly, dynamic community of creative people. Our highly successful, twice-yearly Open Studio Art Shows attracts thousands of buyers and provides you with essential exposure to galleries and collectors. It's more than just a workspace.

Workspace.co.uk
Are you looking for studio space in London suitable for artists? Keen to find studio space for artists in some of the City's most exciting and creative areas? Browse our listings of specialist workspaces for rent. 


Finding studio spaces in London aren't accessible to you? Take a minute to email [email protected]. All evidence we build helps us to work better with funders and partners towards solutions which can help disabled artists.


Published: 2nd August, 2014

Updated: 17th September, 2021

Author:

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For artists and creatives

Arts organisations and services

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Have you signed up to Arts Council England's artsjobs/ artsnews listings yet?  If not, click here

Now that's out the way, here's some other links, categorised by artform


Visual Arts & Galleries

A-N The Artists Information Company
Whether it’s finding a job, gaining professional development, making use of insurance, campaigning to improve your profession or making contact with like-minded folk – a-n membership opens up a range of brilliant benefits for artists, arts professionals and students.

ActionSpace
We support the development of artists with learning disabilities in a professional studio environment and creates innovative projects for people with learning disabilities to engage with the visual arts.

Artists Access 2 Art Colleges 
The AA2A project (Artists Access to Art Colleges) is offering around 50 placements, giving artists and designer makers the opportunity to undertake a period of research or realise a project using art college facilities e.g. workshops, IT facilities, lending library, and lecture programme.  AA2A schemes aim to benefit students and institutions through their interaction with practising artists.

ArtBusiness.com
Resources, advice and much more, from the USA

Artbox London
Artbox London runs free weekly studio sessions for artists with learning disabilities.  These sessions aim to create a supportive, creative and inspiring environment for its artists to create and develop unique artwork using a variety of materials.  Artists are empowered to sell their work through Artbox London exhibitions held in professional galleries and corporate spaces.  Our vision is a world where everyone is given the opportunity to be creative and reach their full potential through art.

Art House Meath
Showcasing talents and skills of adults living with severe epilepsy, learning and physical difficulties. 100% of sales revenue goes back into the project.

Arts Emergency
From mentoring projects to album launches, The Arts Emergency Service will change the lives of thousands of current and future students. We aim to ensure the doors of the university are kept open for those most able to benefit from, but least able to pay for education.

Art Quest
Art Quest provides practical support to visual artists throughout their careers.

Arts Job Finder
Arts jobs listings from Arts Professional.

Core Arts
Core Arts is a registered charity that exists to promote the artistic and creative abilities of people who experience severe and enduring mental health issues.

Creative Walsall
Excellent resource pack here for those living within and outside of the borough, wanting to know more about working in participatory settings

CVAN
Contemporary Visual Arts Network - excellent links to a variety of artist resources, including toolkits and fees guidance

DASH 
Disability led visual arts organisation based in Shropshire

Dulwich Picture Gallery
Dulwich Picture Gallery hosts an array of arty activities aimed at young people, ranging from one-day intensives to after-school courses. Projects include portfolio development, life drawing, block printing, mosaics, quilting and more.

Full Circle Arts
Full Circle Arts are a disabled led organisation who work to involve those who are excluded from the arts, firmly believing that great art should be available to everyone.We provide inclusive opportunities that raise aspirations, challenge the norm and support success.

The London Group
Visual Arts since 1913.  The London Group is a thriving democratic co-operative of artists practicing in all disciplines, from painting and sculpture to moving image and performance, with a full annual events programme in London and beyond.

London Urban Arts Academy
We provide opportunities for individuals and groups to access a range of arts and media programmes regardless of their background or experience. We provide broader learning, support and development programmes to young people, communities and the individuals and groups that support young people.

Low Vision Art

Painting for visually impaired people.

Mini Artists
Our small art classes for children & young people in London are designed and structured by a Goldsmiths Qualified art and design teacher. We educate students on a wide range of fine art principles, because we believe in order for creativity to be unleashed, all children must learn the fundamental practices in fine art.  Through a step to step guide, students will develop their artistic skills and knowledge by using a combination of art mediums within our specially created Dodo Art Studios. 

National Portrait Gallery
Our Young People's Programme includes practical art, music, photography, poetry and dance workshops, led by well-known artists, which aim to explore various aspects of portraiture, inspired by the gallery’s collection and exhibitions. Day-long Sunday Sessions are held on the first Sunday of the month, while holiday workshops take place over two or three days, usually culminating in a performance or private view. The free-to-join creative Youth Forum – a social group for budding artists – meets on the first Thursday evening of the month. All events and workshops are free and run throughout the year.

Process.arts
An Open Online Community, Sharing Learning & Research in the Arts

The Other Side Gallery
Contemporary outsider art.

Outside In
For artists who find it difficult to access the art world because of disability, health, social circumstance or because their work does not conform to what is normally considered as art.

Primer
A free ebook by Artquest for new fine art graduates and emerging artists covering the things you need to consider in your first couple of years after graduation: finding and working with galleries; meeting curators; understanding your rights; living in London on a low income; finding a studio; maintaining a network; and useful places to get more advice.

Project Ability
Development arts organisation promoting the importance of the arts to disabled individuals

Q-Art
We are organisation for current and prospective students, graduates, self-trained artists and all those with an interest in art. We aim to break down the barriers to art education and the contemporary art world and support the networking and development of early career artists. We run open crits, workshops, and produce books and videos.

Rocket Artists
Learning Disability Visual Arts (Brighton)

South London Gallery
The SLG has a number of ongoing, often refreshingly quirky, projects for teenagers. The gallery's Art Assassins, a peer-led group of 14- to 21-year olds, who meet every Tuesday with the aim of gaining an insight into the workings of a contemporary art gallery, collaborating with artists and curators to create a programme of events for other young people. To find out about joining the Art Assassins email [email protected]

Studio Upstairs 
Our mission is to provide holistic support to people who are experiencing enduring mental or emotional difficulties so that they can re-create their reasons and purpose for living, find new ways to live and experience a better quality of life. The ambition of the charity is to create a network of sustainable, safe, local studios available to all who need them, as and when they need them.

Victoria & Albert Museum
Create! is the V&A’s programme for Young People. Take part in an exciting programme of workshops, courses, career-focussed events and free festivals. If you are interested in fashion, digital design, performance and architecture, check out what’s on. Learn new skills through the Create! programme of workshops and courses; join CreateVoice the V&A’s young people’s collective, organise events, give tours and get career insights and support for Arts Awards; for community and youth groups check out the CreateFutures offering career development opportunities.

Youth Arts Online
Youth Arts Online is an online magazine and digital network for young creatives aged 16-26.


Photography, Film, Digital & Media

Arts Job Finder
Arts jobs listings from Arts Professional.

BBC Academy
The BBC Academy - putting training and skills at the heart of the BBC and the industry to help meet the challenges of an ever-changing media world.

BECTU
BECTU is the UK's media and entertainment trade union; sectors covered include broadcasting, film, independent production, theatre and the arts, leisure and digital media.

Community Youth London

If you are a young person aged between 13 and 25 and are interested in music and media, CYL is the ideal learning and training opportunity for you. We are a one of a kind service unlike other media organisations, charities or youth clubs you may have attended as we are unique through our premises, facilities and the industry professional tutors/peer mentors who deliver our services.  We are based within professional production company ‘The Digital Holdings‘ who have impressive film and recording studios, a HD online editing suite and a multi-media classroom. 

Creative Access
Advertising - Film -  Journalism - Marketing -  Music - PR -  Publishing - Talent - Television – Theatre
Media cannot reflect society, if society is not reflected in the media.   Creative Access is looking for talented young people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds to fill paid internship places at many of the UK’s top media organisations.  

Creative Toolkit
This site is for anyone looking for inspiration and support with a career in  the media and entertainment sectors: you could be looking at film, television, radio, theatre, the arts or any of the allied areas. You'll find information and advice on getting started, working with others, your rights in the workplace, guidance on health and safety and insurance and much more. 

Disabled Photographers Society
We are a registered national charity. We promote photography for people with disabilities, or their carers, or groups or anyone with an interest in helping disabled people.
If you have a disability and want to enjoy photography we are here to help, advise and encourage you to overcome the difficulties and to take great photographs

DV8 Training
To transform the lives of young people aged 16-19 through inspirational teaching, and by providing exceptional access to career opportunities in the creative industries.

The Film Bunch

At The Film Bunch, we showcase short films from upcoming filmmakers from around the world. Our mission is to improve access for deaf and hard-of-hearing people to mainstream short films, so we provide subtitles, British Sign Language interpreters and live captioning at our events

4Talent
Kickstart your media career with 4Talent, from Channel 4.

Into Film
Into Film is a film education charity that puts film at the heart of the educational and personal development of children and young people aged 5-19 across the UK.

My First Job in Film
My First Job in Film is a recruitment platform between the UK Film Industry and the individuals who wish to join the film industry as new entrants.

Next Gen Skills Academy
WE BELIEVE IN LEARNING FROM EXPERTS:   Working with over 120 employers, educational institutions and industry support groups to develop national recognised qualifications. Supporting educators with industry professionals. Replicating the studio work environment and project based learning working on industry based briefs.
WE DEVELOP REAL-WORLD SKILLS:  Through digital-making, encouraging team work, critical thinking and problem solving. Delivering short courses focusing on industry identified skills gaps and shortages.
WE ENCOURAGE EXPLORATION:  Along with inquiry and the cross-pollination of disciplines. Through online delivery of skills and training.
WE KNOW THE CREATIVE PIONEERS OF TOMORROW CAN BE SUPPORTED TODAY:  Through the provision of industry specific higher level apprenticeships providing new routes into games, animation and vfx industries. Supporting outreach projects into schools, taster sessions and games jams.

Oska Bright
Carousel's film festival for people with a learning disability

Photo Fusion
With analogue, digital and moving image facilities, Photofusion accomplishes its key function of delivering vital training, support and career progression to photographers of all abilities.
The centre’s facilities include digital suites, professional photographic studio, darkrooms, exhibition production services, picture library/agency alongside a contemporary gallery which places an emphasis on showcasing emerging photographers, alongside new work by mid-career artists. The exhibition programme includes artist talks, panel discussions and occasional related master-classes or workshops.

Springboard Media Training
Springboard Media Training Ltd is a specialist recruitment agency for the creative and digital media industries. Launched in early 2014, Springboard Media Training, has been working to set up an apprenticeship solution for a sector dominated by small businesses and sole traders. We operate like any recruitment agency, but the key difference is our people are apprentices looking to gain experience and knowledge from supportive employers who value training.

Train 2 Game
Courses for games designers.

Youth Arts Online
Youth Arts Online is an online magazine and digital network for young creatives aged 16-26.


Creative Writing

Disability Writes
Online community for disabled writers.

The Literary Consultancy 
The UK's leading manuscript assessment and editorial advice service. TLC also runs a busy programme of literary events, writing workshops and holidays, and manages The Free Read Scheme with support from Arts Council England.

London Writers' Club 
The Writers’ Club that helps writers get published.  Every writer wants their writing to be read. London Writers’ Club connects writers from around the globe connect with UK agents. 

Poetry London 
Poetry London is a leading international poetry magazine where acclaimed contemporary poets share pages with exciting new names. Published three times a year in February, May and September, each issue contains new poetry, incisive reviews and features. Poetry London holds an annual poetry competition and launches each issue with readings from distinguished poet contributors to the magazine.

Spread the Word
“Looking out for London’s writers".  We provide high quality, low cost opportunities for writers to improve their craft and develop their careers. We identify and support talented writers from a diversity of backgrounds and we encourage as many people as possible to try creative writing as a means of self-­expression.

The Writer's Guild
The Writer’s Union. The Writers Guild agreements set the minimum terms and conditions for TV, film, radio, book and theatre work. They of offer members a contract vetting system and advise writers on copyright and credits.


Multi-disciplinary

All Sorts 
Heart n Soul’s Allsorts is a place where adults with learning disabilities can try new art activities, meet new people and have fun. You can take part in a range of workshops, ranging from music to circus skills in a safe and friendly atmosphere where you decide what to do.

ArtsAdmin
Artsadmin makes art happen. Our vision is to be an arts lab for the 21st Century for the creation of performance, site-specific and interdisciplinary work, where the innovative, experimental and unusual are nurtured.

Arts and Disability 

Disability arts directory – Ireland

Arts Emergency 

From mentoring projects to album launches, The Arts Emergency Service will change the lives of thousands of current and future students. We aim to ensure the doors of the university are kept open for those most able to benefit from, but least able to pay for education.

Arts Hub
Arts Hub is the online home for UK arts workers, whereby members can choose to receive jobs and news across many creative pathways including Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Music, Writing & Publishing, Film, and Heritage industries.

Arts Job Finder
Arts jobs listings from Arts Professional.

Barbican – Young People
Are you a budding musician, or would you like to make a film, develop your acting skills or write poetry? We have a wide range of ensembles, groups, Saturday and summer courses for you to join.

Carousel
Carousel works to promote the active involvement of people with a learning disability in the arts, teaching new artistic skills and developing existing talents.

Cockpit Arts
At Cockpit Arts we support extraordinary craftspeople making work in the UK. We are an award winning social enterprise providing the UK's only creative-business incubator for designer-makers.  Since we first started in 1986 we have helped thousands of talented craftspeople to grow their businesses, many of whom have gone on to achieve national and international success. Our mission at Cockpit Arts is to support and promote talented designer-makers from all backgrounds through all stages of their career. We strive to raise standards in the contemporary craft and design sectors, making an important contribution to the UK cultural landscape and economy.

Creative Access 
Advertising - Film -  Journalism - Marketing -  Music - PR -  Publishing - Talent - Television - Theatre
Media cannot reflect society, if society is not reflected in the media.   Creative Access is looking for talented young people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds to fill paid internship places at many of the UK’s top media organisations.  

Creative Choices
Helping you develop your creative career.  Creative Choices provides help for your creative career with jobs, training, advice & networks.

Creative Future
Empowering marginalised artists and writers.

Creative Pool
Create your profile, spread your news, connect, share and inspire.

Creative Skillset
Think you want to work in the Creative Industries but don't know where to start? Try our Career Navigator - we can offer you step-by-step advice on what to do next.

The Creative Society
The Creative Society is an arts employment charity that helps young people into jobs in the creative and cultural industries. 

Creative Toolkit
This site is for anyone looking for inspiration and support with a career in  the media and entertainment sectors: you could be looking at film, television, radio, theatre, the arts or any of the allied areas. You'll find information and advice on getting started, working with others, your rights in the workplace, guidance on health and safety and insurance and much more. 

Creative Youth Network
Exploring talent. Learning new skills. Building confidence. Acting, singing, dancing, playing. Creating something amazing. The Creative Youth Network offers young people the opportunity to transform themselves through the arts.

Disability Arts Online
Delivers editorial about disability arts and culture and offers a blogging platform for disabled artists, as well as commissioning opportunities and support. DAO provides resources for both individuals and the sector, including jobs and events listings, a directory of artists and organisations, and research. Central to DAO is its lively community of discussion and debate around disability arts and culture.

Eastside Educational Trust
Our mission is to engage and educate school age children, through direct participation in the arts. We want to inspire all young Londoners to develop their potential, share their talents and enrich their lives.

Emergency Exit Arts – Street Arts Academy
Combining Visual and Performing Arts, Emergency Exit Arts’ Street Arts Academy (SAA) works with young people aged 13-21 across the UK to make unexpected art moments, events, performances or installations happen in the spaces in which they live, learn, work and play

Epic CIC Arts
We offer a range of arts activities to young people in Kensington & Chelsea including dance, drama, music, photography, painting, spray art and much more - regardless of ability or experience! We specialise in delivering the Arts Award so that young people gain a recognised qualification and have access to progression routes in arts.   We are acknowledged as a Centre of Excellence by Trinity College London’s Arts Award for our work with young people from diverse backgrounds.

Free Form Arts TrustFor young artists in Hackney. Tel: 020 7249 3394 email: [email protected]

Heart n Soul
Heart n Soul is a leading creative arts company with learning disability culture at our heart. Our work is about art, training and taking part.

London Urban Arts Academy
We provide opportunities for individuals and groups to access a range of arts and media programmes regardless of their background or experience.  We provide broader learning, support and development programmes to young people, communities and the individuals and groups that support young people.

1521 Courses at Southbank Centre
Aged 15 to 21 and interested in the arts?   Southbank Centre offers a range of courses to spark your creativity and give you the skills you need to get making.  Whether your passion lies in film, music, poetry, photography or production, these ten-week courses provide opportunities to work alongside professional artists, get trained in using industry-standard equipment, learn new skills and develop your creative talent.

Voluntary Arts
Promoting participation in creative and cultural activities. We support over 11 million people across the UK and Ireland who take part in the voluntary and amateur arts. How can we help? Get in touch, we’d love to hear from you! [email protected] 

Zinc Arts
Zinc is an arts organisation which exists to advance and promote the creativity, culture and heritage of disabled young people and adults and socially excluded groups, for the benefit of all. Based in Essex.


Music

BIMM

British & Irish Modern Music Institute  
At BIMM London we offer a full range of Higher and Further Education modern music courses in the heart of the world’s music capital.  BIMM London is part of the BIMM Group – the UK and Europe’s largest and leading contemporary music college. We offer a full range of Higher and Further Education music courses including degrees and diplomas in a number of different disciplines, such as guitar, bass,drums, vocals, songwriting, music production and music business.

The BIMM London campus is in Effie Road, Fulham, South West London, housed in a five-storey building with state-of-the-art facilities, including recording studios, mac labs, post-production suites, rehearsal studios, lecture rooms, mixing rooms, performance spaces and teaching rooms. So, what are you waiting for? To make it in the music industry, connect with BIMM London today.

Community Youth London

If you are a young person aged between 13 and 25 and are interested in music and media, CYL is the ideal learning and training opportunity for you. We are a one of a kind service unlike other media organisations, charities or youth clubs you may have attended as we are unique through our premises, facilities and the industry professional tutors/peer mentors who deliver our services.  We are based within professional production company ‘The Digital Holdings‘ who have impressive film and recording studios, a HD online editing suite and a multi-media classroom.

Disability Rocks
Disability Rocks develop new and innovative ways to help people living with disabilities have positive experiences of music and arts. It’s clear that live music and arts activities and involvement can have a hugely positive impact on people’s lives. Central to what we do is to produce and host events & festivals and coordinate & support music and arts initiatives which support people of all ages and disabilities.

Drake Music
Drake Music breaks down disabling barriers to music through innovative approaches to learning, teaching and making music. Our focus is on nurturing creativity through exploring music and technology in imaginative ways. We put quality music-making at the heart of everything we do, connecting disabled and non-disabled people locally, nationally and internationally.

Electric Blues Club
Information and advice for musicians, on various aspects of the music industry, music resources, free online music lessons, humour, music news, articles, educational establishments listings and more packed into these pages, with links to over 2000+ UK & International sites including music organisations, magazines, fora, MP3, lyrics, midi, tab, sheet music, artists, bands, agents, management, music equipment manufacturers...... & of course our BLUES section.
Our site has some incredible features including live charts, webcasts, concert listings, new releases, music articles and news updated hourly/daily.

Midi Music Company
We provide a space for all children and young people to be inspired and get into music and the creative industries.  We do this through programmes such as affordable music classes for children and career development for emerging artists to help them make their way in the music industry.

Music for Youth
We organise festivals and concerts across the UK for any group aged 21 or under to perform in. The festivals showcase all styles of music and are a great opportunity to get feedback from music industry professionals. We also organise lots of workshops, masterclasses and collaborations throughout the year. We run an inspirational series of free concerts at venues across the UK. These concerts are performed by young people for young people, providing first-hand experience of live music-making.

The Musician’s Guide
The Musician’s Guide provides musicians with tools and resources to help them achieve careers as professional musicians. Our courses, books, and articles continue to be used by music institutions, leading music companies, and tens of thousands of artists

Music Room

Everything for the musician, includes a blog site.

Resonance FM

Resonance is a groundbreaking 24/7 radio station which broadcasts on 104.4 FM to central London, DAB to Greater London, nationally on Radioplayer and live streamed to the rest of the world.

Realised by a dedicated community of volunteer engineers and programme-makers, Resonance offers over 100 creative broadcast series every week featuring local and international artists, makers and experts.

Resonance seeks to discover, encourage and support a diverse range of artistic voices through radio - from first-timers to seasoned broadcasters.

Sound and Music

The national charity for new music

Sound Connections
Sound Connections develops, supports & empowers young Londoners through high quality music-making opportunities.

Youth Music
We support life-changing music-making and help young people to fulfil their musical potential. We run a wide variety of music projects across the country. You can hear great tracks written and recorded by young people from Youth Music projects across the country on our Sound Cloud page: https://soundcloud.com/youth-music-uk


Performing Arts

Amici Dance Theatre Company 
AMICI is a unique dance theatre company integrating able-bodied & disabled artists and performers. Our productions and workshops challenge conventional attitudes about disability and the arts.  AMICI runs regular classes for its members at The Lyric, Hammersmith where we are the resident community arts company. Biannually we produce a full company show performed in the Lyric’s main theatre.  AMICI gives open-workshops, residencies, student placements and performances throughout the year.

Clean Break
Clean Break is a theatre company set up in 1979 by two women prisoners who believed that theatre changes lives. Clean Break has a long-established theatre-based education and training programme enabling women offenders and those at risk of offending to develop personal, social, professional and creative skills - leading to education and employment.

Corali
 
Performing Arts for people with learning disabilities. Corali is a committed group of people made up of performers with learning disabilities and artist collaborators and educationalists who do not. Corali exists to explore the unique creativity and expression of people with learning disabilities by putting on original performance works and by offering on-going professional development, education and training opportunities.

Face Front
Face Front Inclusive Theatre creates original, ground-breaking Inclusive Theatre with a company of disabled and nondisabled artists.  The company produces professional, entertaining and challenging multi-layered theatre, through its Theatre in Schools, Participation and Theatre programmes.  Performances and workshops are carefully crafted to be accessible to all, including people with physical, sensory and learning impairments, which take place in regional theatres, schools and a variety of venues..

Graeae Theatre
Graeae theatre is a force for change in world-class theatre, breaking down barriers, challenging preconceptions and boldly placing disabled artists centre stage.   Graeae champions accessibility and provides a platform for new generations of Deaf and disabled talent through the creation of trail-blazing theatre, at home and internationall

Greenwich & Lewisham Young People’s Theatre
Welcome to GLYPT!  The home of great theatre and arts activities for young people. Look out for our family shows, take part in one of our drama or dance workshops, or come and visit us at the Tramshed. There’s something for everyone of all ages!

Half Moon Young People's Theatre

The Half Moon's inclusive policy places particular emphasis on engaging those often excluded by ethnicity and disabilities. Their broad participatory programme, which goes out to youth theatres and schools, is a vital extension of this. Within their East End hub, two studios provide a calendar of performance for children aged from six months, while kids can join one of a range of youth theatre groups.

Masterclass
We are a small charity that has a big impact on young people’s lives with a unique offering of masterclasses, apprenticeships, creative opportunities and performance experiences. Masterclass is committed to using theatre and the beautiful Theatre Royal Haymarket to inspire and empower young people – the talent of the future. Over the past 15 years Masterclass has offered over 70,000 places to young people from all over the UK.

The programme is free for anyone between the ages of 14 – 30 and it is vital that exceptional opportunities like Masterclass continue to exist in order to support, nurture and empower future generations.

Mousetrap Theatre Projects
Mousetrap Theatre Projects is a theatre education charity dedicated to bringing the magic of theatre into the lives of young people.  We open the doors to all that London's vibrant theatre scene has to offer, particularly to young people with limited means or opportunities. Whether you are a young person or someone working with young people, we invite you to come through those doors with us and begin your theatre journey.

Old Vic

The Old Vic provides mentoring and nurturing for new creative talent aiming for a career in theatre. The New Voices Club provides the chance for young writers, producers, actors and directors to meet like-minded peers at a series of social events, master-classes and workshops.

One Youth Dance
One Youth Dance was founded in 2011 by a 17 year old dancer, and remains to this day an organisation made by young people for young people.  We bring high quality training and opportunities to those who need it most, whilst raising the standard of non-vocational dance training in the UK. 

Peer Productions
We train young people (aged 16 – 23 years) as actors and peer educators enabling them to deliver a series of arts projects in the community and forge a career in the arts industry. We deliver drama and film outreach projects for disadvantaged young people using creativity as a tool to enable them to achieve their full potential and make positive life choice.

Roundhouse
The Roundhouse hosts a range of workshops and courses for participants aged 11-25 covering music, creative media and performing arts, all based at the high-tech Roundhouse Studios. Projects include music production, filming and editing, journalism, drama and circus skills. You can audition for the Roundhouse Choir or Music Collective, try out radio, circus and DJing at weekly drop-in nights (only £2 per session) or contribute to the award-winning Roundhouse Radio. 
We make sure all our projects are equally accessible, supportive and collaborative and are at a low cost, with bursaries  also available. 

Second Wave
Second Wave is a venue and a meeting place in Deptford for young people. We run regular youth-centred Platform Events and workshops for young performers and writers 12-24 years. Our creative programmes run on Saturdays, evenings and holidays. Usually, you can join anytime. Just ring us on 020 8694 2444 to book a FREE taster for yourself and a friend. No experience is needed and new members are always welcome.

Stopgap Dance
Stopgap Dance Company seamlessly integrates dancers with and without disabilities.  We are experts of inclusive choreography and have extensive experience of nurturing disabled and non-disabled artists for making inclusive works. 

The Stage
Theatre news, reviews, interviews and jobs. Publishing across the web and print, The Stage is a must read for those with an involvement or interest in the rich performing arts industry in Great Britain and beyond.

UK Theatre
UK Theatre supports theatre and performing arts organisations and individuals who work professionally in the performing arts at any stage of their career. Our Members have access to a range of professional services and tailored benefits to suit the needs of you and/or your organisation. Whether it's through sharing knowledge, bringing you together with the right people or providing practical advice, UK Theatre supports your professional development.

The White Pube's 'How to Get an Exhibition' resource

VisABLE actors’ agency
VisABLE is the world's first initiative to create mainstream professional opportunities for actors, presenters & models with disabilities. The result of this is a completely new market which puts disabled artists into the media focus.

Young Actors Theatre 
The Young Actors Theatre is a unique and vibrant community based theatre which provides drama classes, workshops and productions for young people with the opportunity for professional development in the performing arts. YAT Management represents a broad and diverse mix of people between the ages of 5 and 25. Our clients are currently working in film, TV and theatre both nationally and internationally. Young Actors Theatre is registered as a charity no. 266765.


Published: 3rd August, 2014

Updated: 25th January, 2021

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Access Docs for Artists

Information on writing an access document for disabled artists

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An access doc, or access ‘rider’ is a document that outlines your disability access needs. You might make one so that you can give it to galleries/institutions/organisations when you start working with them on a project, such as a gallery you’re doing a show at for example, to let them know what you need them to facilitate to make sure you have equal access to work.

Find out more here and create your own access doc: https://www.accessdocsforartists.com/

Published: 1st October, 2014

Updated: 7th January, 2022

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Careers and advice services

Links to external organisations and services that offer careers information, advice or support to young people and-or adults.

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All About School Leavers
Online information, tips and advice for school leavers. Includes a free online career guidance tool called My Spring Board: http://www.mycareerspringboard.org/

Apprenticeships
There are lots of benefits to doing an Apprenticeship, so why not find out how rewarding they can be for you?

Aspirations for Life
Raising the aspirations of young people with learning disabilities.

Big Creative Education

Big Creative education is an innovative 16-19 school for excellence. BCE offers courses & internal progression routes from Entry Level through to Level 3 and Apprenticeships. We provide entry routes for all young people and are pleased to announce that last year 78% of our learners went onto further education or employment.

The Brilliant Club 

The Brilliant Club is an award winning charity that exists to widen access to highly-selective universities for pupils from under-represented groups.

Career Camel
A Careers Site For Students, Graduates & School Leavers Offering Jobs, Internships, Advice & Courses.

Career development loans
Information from gov.uk

Career Map
If you're looking for an apprenticeship, a college course, a job or even to go to university, then you've come to the right place. Just enter your post code, town or city on our website and let us show you the options.

Careers Box
The national careers film library; a free careers resource showing real people doing real jobs.

Careers 4 U
Careers 4 U is a video-led resource that makes it easy for students to gain awareness of different careers and work environments - and the requirements of employers. Careers4u.tv helps students discover what they would enjoy doing and motivates them to work to achieve those goals.

Catch 22
We are a social business providing services that help people in tough situations to turn their lives around.

City Lit college in London offers a free careers advice service to deaf sign language users, on behalf of the National Careers Service, delivered by an experienced careers adviser with Level 6 BSL skills.  You can arrange an appointment by emailing us at [email protected]

Create Jobs

CREATE is an online recruitment site, dedicated to helping you find a job. CREATE will help you search through new jobs to find you the right one. The job sectors covered are Administration, Care, Retail & Hospitality. Our service is 100% free of charge to use.

Deaf Roots

mployability & skills training for deaf / hearing impaired people. If you're deaf or hard of hearing and looking for work, come down to Deafroots so we can help!

Disability Horizons - Employment pages Information, articles and tips regarding a variety of employment themes. 

Diversity Jobs
A fair and inclusive careers market place for all.
We only display jobs from employers who understand the value of building a diverse workforce.

Epic CIC

‘Encouraging Potential – Inspiring Change’

We deliver a comprehensive range of youth support services in the borough of Kensington & Chelsea to children and young people up to the age of 19 and up to the age of 25 for young people with a lifelong learning difficulty and/or disability (LLDD). 

Our services are provided under four main categories:

  • Epic Youth,
  • Epic Ambition
  • Epic Sport  
  • Epic Health

Our mission is to inspire young people to achieve their potential and to make a positive difference to the communities in which we work.

Even Break 
Disability and employment

Fitzrovia Youth In Action - mentoring

Over the past year, we have supported over 100 young people thorough our mentoring programmes. If you are interested in getting involved, please get in touch with the team on [email protected]

The Foyer Federation

The Foyer Federation is a not-for-profit organisation that helps to transform the circumstances of young people who have faced barriers in their lives. Our ground breaking campaigns and initiatives are led through a network of 120 accredited learning and accommodation centres known as ‘Foyers’. These Foyers provide up to 10,000 16-25 year olds per year with mutually agreed, tailor-made programmes which give the young people access to housing, learning, personal development, training and employment opportunities in line with their needs and goals.

Working through our network and by forging new partnerships, the Foyer Federation will continue to provide high quality leadership in the field of youth development. 

Get Smaart
Online student and school-leaver career & course information.

Go Think Big
Helping young people achieve their career dreams.

Hot Courses or Floodlight
Course search engines and other related information.

London Youth
We're here to support and challenge young people, whatever their background and whoever they are, to reach their full potential.

MAMA Youth Project

MAMA Youth Project aims to equip young people from 18-25 years of age with the skills and experience to secure long-term, fulfilling employment in the TV and media industry. We particularly focus on young people from under-represented groups and those with limited educational or employment opportunities, including unemployed graduates. We are committed to getting young people into employment and to bringing diversity to the media industry.

MHFE

A network for anyone with an interest in adult education and mental health

National Careers Service

For information, advice and guidance adults you can contact the National Careers Service.  Tel: 0800 100 900 Text: 07766 413339.

Planit                                                                                                                                                                                               

We are passionate about helping young people to develop well-informed and ambitious plans for their future by providing up-to-date, accurate and impartial careers and learning opportunity information and advice. Planit is aimed at young people in Scotland, but still has loads of useful information on a range of topics, including applying to college or university, applying for jobs, going for interviews and what to expect when start college, university or your first job, which may be useful to everyone.

Plotr
The one-stop-shop for career inspiration and preparation. Explore plotr now and you can watch exciting videos, read awesome advice articles and get yourself ready for the next step.

Positive Directions
Positive Directions is about helping young people to get on with their future!
It’s for young people who are not currently in education, training or employment.
Skills Training UK delivers Positive Directions at its own centres in London and offers a range of advice, support and courses including:

• 1-2-1 advice, information and guidance from a mentor on what to do next
• Help to get onto a course, a job with training or a job with an apprenticeship
• Access to additional help and support e.g. English, Maths, ICT, CV writing and interviews
Each young person gets the support they need, which includes addressing any individual issues or concerns.

The Prince’s Trust
Prince's Trust courses can give you skills, support and work experience, and you'll meet other young people with similar goals as you. If you're aged 16-25 and unemployed, what's stopping you?

Prospects
The UK’s official graduate career website.

RateMyApprenticeship

Helping young people consider all their future career options.  Are you confused about what to do next? We can help.

Remploy
Putting ability first.

Shaw Trust 
Ability at work.

Skills Training UK 
Employability and skills training provider for adults and young people.

Snowdon Trust

We provide grants to physically disabled and sensory impaired students studying in the UK – in further or higher education or those training towards employment. Our Grants help cover additional costs that students incur as a result of their disability and where available statutory funding does not cover them.

Target Jobs 
“the best possible start to your career”.

Toucan Employment
We are a not-for-profit charity organisation who support people with learning difficulties/disabilities in Southwark, Lambeth, Brent and Lewisham.

Uni Stats 
Compare official course data from universities and colleges

VInspired
A charity that connects young people with volunteering opportunities.

Yes +
Youth Empowerment Services for ex-offenders.
Education, Training & Employment, Attitudes, Thinking & Behaviour.

Youthnet
A lifeline online for young people, including http://www.thesite.org/ where young people can get anonymous, straight-talking emotional support 24 hours a day.

118 Student 
Advice website where you'll find help and information on managing your life whilst studying at college or university. The main focus of this site is helping you manage your finances although we have help pages and guides on lifestyle topics such as traveling and getting a job at the end of your studies.

Published: 9th October, 2014

Updated: 2nd March, 2020

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Disability resources, services and organisations

Links to various disability-related support services and organisations

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Accessibility

Artists Access to Art Colleges - Provides placements for visual artists and designer makers in Higher and Further Education institutions across England

Access to Work - Financial support to assist disabled people to gain and remain in employment

Artsline
- disability access info service - arts / London

Direct Enquiries - national access register

Disabled Go - nationwide access information

Disability Horizons - Travel pages - Information, articles and tips about disability and travel

Museums DCN - Disability Co-operative Network to increase access for disabled (inc.neurodiversity) people in the heritage sector


Disability Resources, Funding or Employment

Ableize - disability resource directory

Access to Work - Financial support to assist disabled people to gain and remain in employment

ADP - Association of Disabled Professionals

Business Disability Forum

The Camden Society – see link for ‘our services’ then ‘employment and learning services’

Disability Grants - general grants for disabled people and other disability-related information

Disability Horizons - Employment Pages - Information, articles and tips regarding a variety of employment themes.

Disability Rights UK - "We are disabled people leading change, working for equal participation for all"

Disabled Workers - various job sectors, including arts

Diversity Jobs - A fair and inclusive careers market place for all. We only display jobs from employers who understand the value of building a diverse workforce.

Elfrida Rathbone Camden - works to achieve independence, empowerment & personal development for disabled people, children & young people, parents and families

Elizabeth Finn Care - financial support for various needs

Even Break - disability and employment

Gov.uk - Disabilities - various information concerning disability

Job Prices - 15 things every newly disabled person should know about

Remploy – Putting ability first

Rethink - Rethink Mental Illness

RNIB - Extending the Reach - paid work experience for people with sight loss

Shaw Trust - Ability at work

Snowdon Trust  Grants for physically disabled and sensory impaired students studying in the UK – in further or higher education or those training towards employment. Our Grants help cover additional costs that students incur as a result of their disability and where available statutory funding does not cover them.

Time To Change - “lets end mental health discrimination”

Time to Change, Grants - link to external sources of funding via Time to Change

Tower Project - job / employment training in Tower Hamlets & the City

United Response - United Response provides a range of services for people with learning disabilities, mental health needs or physical disabilities.

Stairlifts Reviews – Information on how to get grants for stairlifts

2020 Guide to Universal Credit 


Other Resource Sites

BCODP - Pressure group for disabled people's rights

Disability Horizons - “A 21st century view of disability”

Disabled Info - disability info from disabled people

Disability Law Service

DPAC - Disabled People Against Cuts

DWP - Department of Work and Pensions - links to pre-employment and employment support for disabled people, including a link to Access to Work support for paid internships, traineeships and apprenticeships 

Inclusion London - promoting equality for London’s deaf and disabled people

SENDirect - directory of services, activities and organisations for people with additional needs

Turn 2 Us - charity assisting people to access grants and/or benefits.


All information correct at time of writing.

Please double-check information on the respective websites.

 

Published: 12th October, 2014

Updated: 18th February, 2020

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Funding links

Use the following external links for information about possible sources of arts funding.

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Access to Work
An Access to Work grant can pay for practical support if you have a disability, health or mental health condition to help you:

  • start working
  • stay in work
  • move into self-employment or start a business

How much you get depends on your circumstances.

The money doesn’t have to be paid back and will not affect your other benefits.

Artquest
Everything a visual artist needs to know.  

Arts Awards
Arts Awards support imaginative and experimental arts projects that investigate biomedical science. The scheme aims 
to: 
- stimulate interest, excitement and debate about biomedical science through the arts 
- examine the social, cultural, and ethical impact of biomedical science 
- support formal and informal learning 
- encourage new ways of thinking 
- encourage high quality interdisciplinary practice and collaborative partnerships in arts, science and/or education practice. 
All art forms are covered by the programme: dance, drama, performance arts, visual arts, music, film, craft, photography, creativewriting or digital media. 

Arts Council England
We work to get great art to everyone by championing, developing and investing in experiences that enrich people's lives. Grants for the arts are the activities carried out over a set period and which engage people in England arts activities and help artists and organisations in England carry out their work. This link takes you to the main funding page on the ACE website, which includes organisational funding. Below are links to areas of support for independent artists. 

Developing your creative practice: https://www.artscouncil.org.uk/DYCP

Project grants: https://www.artscouncil.org.uk/projectgrants 

Arts Fundraising & Philanthropy
The Arts Fundraising and Philanthropy Programme offers people across the arts and cultural sector training, traineeships, coaching, and digital skills development to encourage innovative and effective practice in arts fundraising and encourage a more entrepreneurial approach to income generation.

Creative Industry Finance - for creative organisations

Critical Network
Critical Network lists residencies and grants together with opportunities for festivals, group shows and commissions.

Crowdfunder
Crowdfunder is a new way for people to pool small amounts of money to back a good idea or project. If you need funding for a project or idea, Crowdfunder really is a no-brainer. Crowdfunder aims to fund all sorts of crazy, arty, funny, ingenious and jaw-dropping projects. So if you are an artist, explorer, musician, writer, entreprenuer or thrill seeker get in touch and kick start your project with Crowdfunder today.

Elephant Trust - small arts grants for individuals up to £2k 

Gane Trust - small grants to artists up to £1k 

Guidestar UK - Free directory where you can input different search criteria on charities that may give money.
 
Help Musicians - We welcome musicians who play, create, sing or teach all styles of music and we are working hard to dispel the myth that we only help older classical musicians. We help musicians of all ages and all genres. 

Indie Fund
Indie Fund is a funding source for independent developers, created by a group of successful indies looking to encourage the next wave of game developers.

J4B Community - Free funding directory for the voluntary & community sector; requires registration.

PRS for Music Foundation
PRS for Music Foundation is looking to support music creators, performaers and promoters who are involved in creatively adventurous of pioneering musical activity. It does this by offering a wide range of funding schemes for new music activity/ For full details of each scheme and how to apply. 

Published: 1st September, 2015

Updated: 7th August, 2018

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Self-employment

Useful links for those interested in becoming self-employed, setting up a business or working freelance in the creative industries.

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a-n

https://www.a-n.co.uk/tag/self-employment

Various links and blog articles about self employment in the arts. 


Access Docs for Artists

Created by artists Leah Clements, Alice Hattrick and Lizzy Rose, Access Docs For Artists is a helpful guide on how to outline your access needs to any galleries/institutions/organisations when you start working with them on a project, to let them know what you need, what they need to facilitate and to make sure you have equal access to work.

https://www.accessdocsforartists.com/what-is-an-access-doc


Art Quest How To...

How to register as self-employed


https://www.artquest.org.uk/how-to-articles/registering-as-self-employed/

If you are getting paid for work or selling art, it is a legal requirement to register as self-employed.  
But what does this mean?  This link outlines things you may need to know. 


How to go about registering as a business


https://www.artquest.org.uk/how-to-articles/setting-up-a-business/

This guide discusses the main points you should consider in the early stages of starting out as a self-employed art practitioner, designer or creative business.


British Library Business & IP Centre

http://www.bl.uk/bipc/index.html

Small business advice at the British Library

The Business & IP Centre was launched in 2006 with the aim to support businesses, entrepreneurs and inventors grow their organisations across a range of industries.

Providing small business advice, support and resources the Centre has been used by more than 350,000 individuals, a number that increases alongside our offering of business support. 

The success is partly due to the free business resources available to anyone who wants to use our comprehensive collection of databases and publications, as well as a great number of workshops, advice sessions and other events. 


Business & self employment info from gov.uk

www.gov.uk/browse/business

A government resource for Information about starting up and running a business in the UK.


Business Survival Tooklit

http://business-survival-toolkit.co.uk/

The tools you need to help your creative business plan, adapt and grow.

Whether you are self-employed, run a small creative team, or manage a cultural business of two hundred people, this toolkit is for you. It offers hands-on tools to help with the big decisions arts, heritage and creative organisations make every day.

Looking to start up a new creative business? Wondering how to build a marketing strategy? Need help with governance or fundraising issues? This toolkit is here to help you act now.


Creative Choices articles

Being an arts entrepreneur

http://ccskills.org.uk/careers/advice/article/being-an-arts-entrepreneur

Sector Skills Assessment 

https://ccskills.org.uk/downloads/1321190281-CCSkills_Northern_Ireland_SSA_2010-11.pdf

A creative passion is at the heart of every enterprise. Many entrepreneurs have developed their creative talents into successful businesses in the creative and cultural fields.

Starting a business

https://ccskills.org.uk/careers/advice/question/how-do-i-set-up-an-arts-company

Our research shows that freelance and small businesses make up the majority of the creative industries, so this section is dedicated to helping you develop your business skills.


Transition to Freelance

http://ccskills.org.uk/careers/advice/article/the-transition-to-freelancing

Article on Creative Choices with tips on becoming a freelancer.


6 tips for creative start-ups

http://ccskills.org.uk/careers/advice/article/6-tips-for-creative-startups

So you’re curious about the business of being creative and have decided to do something about it. Pete Mosley, advisor to creative people and businesses, has six pieces of advice.


Creative Review - Are you earning the right amount?

https://www.creativereview.co.uk/are-you-earning-the-right-amount/

Blog: How does your pay measure up? Recruitment consultancy Major Players has conducted a creative industry salary survey on design and creative jobs, both permanent and freelance


Writers & Artists

Why should I register as self-employed?

If you are planning to undertake freelance work – namely where the person asking you to do the work expects you to pay your own Income Tax, National Insurance and usually to have your own insurance cover – then you should register as self-employed.  Click on the link to read more. 


Wright Hassal - Go to guide to starting a business

https://www.wrighthassall.co.uk/knowledge/legal-guides/2016/02/22/go-guide-starting-business/

We have published a guide on starting a business. It covers company structures, people, premises, funding and legal advice.


Published: 2nd September, 2015

Updated: 12th February, 2020

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Other links and resources

Click here for a variety of links and resources of interest to those developing a creative career or practice.

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Free Guides from Disability Rights UK

Disability Rights UK (DRUK) have produced the following guides which you can read for free.

  • Get Back 16 - our free of charge guide on education, training and employment options for disabled people

http://www.disabilityrightsuk.org/sites/default/files/pdf/GetBack16.pdf

We have been commissioned by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) to produce this new information guide on the education, training and employment opportunities available to people with a newly acquired disability or health condition. 

The guide entitled “Get back to where we do belong: An employment skills guide for people with newly acquired disabilities or health conditions” has been endorsed by Professor Dame Carol Black and includes the following information:  what to expect from employers; advice and signposting on careers, education, training opportunities and welfare benefits; coping strategies and resilience.  Personal stories are used throughout the guide. 

Please inform anyone who you think would benefit from the guide.  We would also appreciate your feedback on how the guide has helped make a difference to you or your members by completing the very short survey on our website

“This document should find its place on every employer’s and manager’s desk, or better, in their pocket.”  Professor Dame Carol Black (Department of Health’s Expert Advisor on improving the welfare of working people).

  • Good practice in supporting disabled learners:

Disability Rights UK is developing a toolkit of resources for education providers to showcase good practice in supporting disabled learners to make the transition to internships and paid employment. The first set of materials has been published

  • Our new Into Further Education guide published:

http://www.disabilityrightsuk.org/sites/default/files/pdf/IntoFE-11Apr2016.pdf

This publication is for anyone with a health condition, learning difficulty or disability thinking about studying in further education in England. Into Further Education 2016 aims to answer common questions such as whether colleges will be accessible to disabled students, how to choose a course and what support will be available.

Published: 22nd April, 2016

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Published: 12th April, 2021

Updated: 7th April, 2022

Author: Eli Hayes

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Shape Arts

Company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales under number 01468164 and registered as a Charity number 279184

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