ISM MUSIC JOURNAL SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 | SUPPORTING YOU THROUGH A PANDEMIC
Supporting you through a pandemic Ruth McPherson, ISM's Senior Partnerships & Marketing Manager, explains how the whole of the ISM has swung into action to support you, our members, as you face the challenges caused by the COVID-19 crisis, and shares some of your responses
2020 has been a year like no other. Coronavirus has been the biggest challenge faced by the music sector for generations. At the ISM, we’ve been all hands on deck, supporting and guiding you through the crisis, to keep you informed and, where possible, still working and making music.
Above: Ruth McPherson, ISM Senior Partnerships & Marketing Manager Photo: Emile Holba
Useful advice We’ve built up an extensive library of resources in our COVID-19 advice hub. Whether you’re looking for information on returning to work, guidance on accessing financial support, or ways to obtain funding to boost your career, we’ve covered a wide range of topics. You can read our latest advice at ism.org/covid-19
Our staff team have constantly adapted our services in response to the changing situation, and we’re grateful that so many of you have been in touch to let us know ‘The ISM is my “go to”place whenever I need advice and how we’ve helped you. In this feature we take a look guidance relating to the professional aspects of my life. at some of your key membership benefits, together Thank you, ISM!’ – ISM member with some of the feedback we’ve received from you. ‘I would like to state my enormous gratitude to all stafff for their professional support, kindness, friendliness, knowledge and continuous efficiency.’ – ISM member
Regular updates One of the first things we did when the virus hit was to send you a daily members’ e-newsletter, which we used to keep you up to date with all the various changes and new guidelines that were continuously coming from the government, and we offered you advice on how to transition to working online and on staying healthy during lockdown. More recently, we have moved to weekly updates, with additional announcements when necessary. ‘Thank you for your continued advice and updates. I always find them helpful and supportive.’ – Glynis Williams, ISM member since 2019
Bespoke legal assistance The number of legal enquiries from members has doubled during the pandemic. Our legal team has been on hand to support members, answering queries relating to understanding furlough agreements, adapting contracts to facilitate online teaching, issues around employment, and much more.
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