07


Charities’ rapid response to Covid crisis


industry since, and it became clear at the beginning of lockdown that journalists faced a range of threats. Ellen Bramley, the charity’s


T


outreach officer, said: “Our response to the crisis was simple: to highlight the incredible role being played by journalists working tirelessly to provide key information and scrutiny,


he Journalists’ Charity, founded by Charles Dickens more than 150 years ago, has seen many hard times in the


despite having their own lives turned upside down in the face of great uncertainty. “Troughout the crisis, the charity has provided support to hundreds of journalists affected by the impact of coronavirus, responding quickly with confidential advice and emergency assistance. Since April, the charity has prevented 15 journalists and their families from losing their homes and dozens of others have received life-changing support. For some journalists, work has gradually


returned, but for many the future remains uncertain and here the charity stands ready to offer further assistance.” Te NUJ’s own welfare charity, NUJ


Extra, oſten works in partnership with the Journalists’ Charity to help journalists in need, and of course has also been helping many NUJ members in financial and other difficulties during this pandemic. Trustee Francis Sedgemore said: “Members should be reassured that NUJ Extra is always there for those suffering financial hardship, whether they be due to Covid-19 or other issues.”


Zooming in or Zoomed


out? Te move to online branch meetings on Zoom, Teams or other platforms has led to more people joining in and a more diverse group of members atending, the union has learned anecdotally. In light of ongoing and widening Covid-19 restrictions, it is likely these remote meetings will continue for the next few months so the NUJ would like to hear


your views on the benefits and disadvantages of online branch meetings. Are there issues for those who do not have access to Zoom or feel uncomfortable with the technology? How can the NUJ support branches, whether with technological help, improving communication or ensuring that virtual meetings are fully accessible? To help the union help you, please take a few moments to complete the following survey: htps://www. surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ NUJBranch1


NUJ Extra: to donate or apply for assistance, go to


Help •


www.nuj.org.uk/work/nuj-extra/


Te Journalists’ Charity: scan the code on the logo and become a supporter www.journalistscharity.org.uk/


•


SUPPORT


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8