New statistics reveal extent of the pandemic on arts industry

Photo credit: George Etheredge/The New York Times

The Office of National Statistics has reported that the arts has been the hardest hit of any industry during the pandemic, with 51% being furloughed as part of the government’s job retention scheme, in comparison to an average of 13% across the country as a whole.

It has also been said that nearly 25% of arts businesses are at risk of closure, compared to an average 11% for other UK industries. This is predominantly because the footfall has fallen by 76% since the lockdown began in March. Over half of arts and entertainment organisations have also stated that they have less than six month’s cash reserves remaining, with 6% having none left.

Amongst these frightening figures however, 8% of the industry has been able to reopen in the last fortnight, which is a growth larger than any other sector.

Let’s pray the latter continues, Besties.