Changes to the Job Support Scheme to reduce the burden on employers who can't operate due to local coronavirus restrictions will have little effect on the arts.
Theatres Trust Director Jon Morgan said theatres are suffering a downturn in business, but haven't been forced to close and therefore are ineligible for the increased support.
"We therefore urge the Chancellor to implement a sector specific support scheme for theatres and other events spaces which cannot reopen and are rapidly running out of money. This is vital to prevent further job losses on top of the 7,500 plus the industry has already suffered," Morgan said.
The Musicians' Union (MU) also called for further investment, noting the changes will not help freelancers accessing the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS).
SEISS income support will double, Rishi Sunak has announced, but this is not enough, say the MU.
"The UK’s music industry is a viable industry, which the Government’s Covid-19 restrictions are keeping closed. They now have a responsibility to look after this industry, and the musicians and freelancers who make it the envy of the world."