Artists and COVID-19
COVID-19 presents a challenging time for artists and it is important to focus on looking after yourself and your wellbeing. The information below highlights organisations and government departments in Jersey who are best placed to assist with specific questions you may have, or any help you may need.
Work
If you are employed but have to self-isolate, sickness benefit can be claimed. Please visit the Health section on gov.je
If you have any questions around financial support, please contact Customer and Local Services who will be best placed to supply you with the most up to date information.
Physical Health
Please follow all up to date government advice if you feel unwell or have any symptoms of COVID-19. A dedicated phone line has also been set up 01534 445566, open 8am - 8pm every day, which you should call if you feel you may have the virus. However, if you feel very unwell please call 999.
Mental Health
It is a hard time for a lot of people now. You may have lost work, or are worried about the situation as a whole - the general uncertainty COVID-19 has created can be difficult to process. It is very important that you look after your mental health during this time and find the support if you need it.
There are numerous places in Jersey that can help you with this:
Listening Lounge - The Listening Lounge is a safe space based in Charles Street, St Helier, where you can speak to someone about anything. Due to current restrictions around social distancing, they cannot meet people face to face. However, there is also a phone line to call if you want to speak to someone directly- 01534 866793. They are open 10am-10pm, 7 days a week.
Mind Jersey - Mind Jersey are a mental health charity – their website has a lot of information and tools about managing your mental health. They also have a dedicated post about how they can support you during COVID-19.
Samaritans - The Samaritans is a free, confidential phone line that is always open. You can speak to someone about anything you may be having difficulty with – the number is116 123. They have also published some useful guidance on how to help manage your mental health during COVID-19.
Your GP will also be able to help signpost you to services. It is important to remember to call your GP if you need support during this time- they are still functioning and there to help you. You should not view any issue you may be facing as a burden on the health system - help is there if you require it.
If you are very low and feel you need immediate help, you can present at A&E.
For both your physical and mental health, it is important you look after yourself during this time. Stay connected with friends and family, make time for exercise or meditation, eat healthy foods, drink plenty of water and focus on maintaining a good sleep routine. There are many apps you can download to help you with the above - the NHS provide a long list of these here.
Finances
If you are concerned about paying loans or mortgages, please speak directly with your bank as some are offering payment breaks or the ability to only pay interest only for a period of time. Again, this is always changing so it is best to contact them directly for the most up to date information.
If you are struggling with paying rent, or have any other issues around support, speak to Citizens Advice Jersey. They have closed their offices at present, but are available over the phone - 01534 724942 - or by email on advice@cab.org.je
If you have any questions around your current employment, or are experiencing any issues with your employment due to COVID-19, speak to JACS to understand your rights and best processes to follow if necessary.
Food banks
If you are struggling to afford food, there are a number of options in Jersey.
Grace Trust Jersey - Please call 631667 for the latest information regarding the operation of the food bank.
Salvation Army - Jersey Salvation Army is committed to continuing to support, especially the most vulnerable members of our society physically, emotionally and spiritually through this time. They are offering a food bank which you will need to call 01534 872270 to access - the number may be busy, so please keep trying. They also offer free soup daily from their cafe, and this is currently continuing as take away only.
Arts Community
ArtHouse Jersey Producers are now available for artists to book live chats with, providing a dedicated space to discuss projects and portfolios and ask any questions or advice. If you are interested in booking in a slot, please email emma@arts.je
ArtsProfessional have started a section called CovidCulture which looks at topics such a money, wellbeing and sustaining the artistic community during this difficult time.
#artistsupportpledge is another grassroot movement that has started in response to the impact of COVID-19, with artists sharing their work for sale online (max £200) and once they earn £1000 from sales, pledging to buy a piece from another artist. The idea is to keep the artwork economy alive and sustained during this difficult period.
We are going to keep this section of the website live and updated as the situation around COVID-19 develops. If you see anything that you feel is worth sharing, please email emma@arts.je