A new grant scheme has been announced by the The Book Trade Charity (BTBS), as part of its closer collaboration with the Matthew Hodder Charitable Trust. It is the second phase of a pilot project aimed at encouraging talented younger people into the book trade though a programme of grants.
The initial launch set out to help those who are unable to get a foot into the industry where financial pressure means that they are unable to pay for travel, subsistence, overnight accommodation or even suitable clothing for interviews. The scheme is available for under 30’s, who are resident in the UK, applying for a job in the UK Book Trade, in publishing, bookselling or with literary agencies, who can demonstrate a financial need.
The project has now been extended to cover support for appropriate internships; grants of up to £2,000 will be available quickly to those eligible for the scheme. BTBS will welcome applications either by the applicants or from companies, trade bodies or others acting on behalf of the applicant.
On launching the scheme, David Hicks – Chief Executive, BTBS said ” The Book Trade Charity traces its roots back to 1837 and Victorian philanthropy, but we are keen to support the trade in ways which are relevant today. This particular programme recognises that it is difficult for young people to get a foot on the ladder in today’s rapidly-changing industry and we will be delighted if our assistance can help overcome some basis obstacles.”
The Book Trade Charity (BTBS) is the book trade’s own welfare charity, offering financial support and/or housing to anyone who has worked in the trade for more than one year in a range of roles and who has a problem, whether personal, financial or health-related. This project does not rely on a qualifying period of work in the trade as it is designed to assist and those wishing to enter the industry, including students.
Applications will be considered for paid internships, normally for not longer than six months, where additional funds are necessary to make it possible for the individual to take up the position, which they might not be able to afford otherwise. Support is envisaged towards
- travel
- subsistence
- accommodation
- general living costs
the employer will be expected to be paying at least Minimum Wage and the scheme is designed to support genuine opportunities, not exploitation. Work Experience placements (e.g. as part of trade-related post-graduate degrees), where these are unpaid, will also be considered for BTBS support on the individual merits of the application.
You can download the full guidelines and application form here Internships in the Book Trade guidelines
or visit The Book Trade Charity BTBS website for further information and other funding available.