Real stories – helping journalists affected by Covid-19

19 January, 2021

The Journalists’ Charity has been supporting an unprecedented number of individuals over the last year whose lives have been turned upside down by Covid-19. Your donations have helped to provide a lifeline for those who have lost work, with many still facing a very uncertain future.

Al’s a freelance writer and broadcaster in the Midlands…

…working across various radio and tv stations. The outbreak had a huge impact on the availability of work with on/off lockdowns adding to a very challenging situation. The charity stepped in, providing payments to support Al and his young family until work started to return.

Oh my word. This is incredible. Thank you so, so much. I can’t actually put into words what this means. (I actually have tears in my eyes.) Please thank the trustees from me and my family. It really has been quite the year and I never thought I’d be in this position. But your help has done so much I can’t really say.

Click here to donate and help journalists like Al

Hina is a sports journalist based in London…

…who has lost most of her income since March 2020 because of disruption to sporting fixtures caused by the pandemic. Although the situation improved for a time, when restrictions tightened after the Summer, work dried-up again. The charity stepped in to provide assistance to Hina through this difficult and uncertain period.

“I do not know what to say. This is the most amazing news after such a desperate few months and I can only thank you for your help. This grant will help get me through the next few weeks and I am so grateful.”

Ed’s a football writer from the North West… 

…and like so many other sports journalists, his work has been on and off for nearly a year. He’s finding other ways to earn money, but the changing nature of restrictions in the second half of 2020 has made planning very difficult. The charity has been there to support Ed during this stressful time…

You’ve helped me out a lot, and it really is appreciated. The Journalists’ Charity has been fantastic in its support, helping me and others across what has been a tough year for the industry. The staff have been terrific, I urge anyone to get in touch if they need any kind of assistance.” 

Click here to donate and help journalists like Ed.

Adrianne’s a print journalist with years’ of experience…

…but like so many freelances has had her life turned upside by the impact of the pandemic, losing work and income without the time to plan or prepare. When there was nowhere else to turn, the Journalists’ Charity has helped Adrianne with help and assistance.

“Thank you very much for the charitable grant. I have worked in publishing for over 40 years. My career covers the roles of editor, managing editor and freelance writer with national magazines and newspapers. These funds will help towards covering my personal expenses until I receive my state pension next November.”

If you’re struggling to make ends meet because of the impact of Covid-19, the Journalists’ Charity is here to offer advice and support. Click here to see how we could help you, and for our comprehensive coronavirus resource go to journalistscharity.org.uk/coronavirus