Northern Film and Media has announced changes to the support it provides to moving image production in this region.

Twin teams will promote Economic Impact and Social Impact. "These changes are to make a bigger difference to the region - we want to do that with you," said Chief Executive Tom Harvey.

New:

* faster simpler applications processes

* funding is now available for New Media projects

* a fast track application scheme for grants under £300 - to attend training courses, conferences etc

* an Accelerator panel to give your project a speedy response

* a requirement that project funding must find at least 25% match funding

* funding is now provided for marketing activity including showreel creation

Many existing services such as career advice sessions, script reading, and training courses continue.

Details of NFM services 

Accelerator

A programme to support creative and innovative moving image projects. Open to

individuals and organisations across the creative industries, the scheme is run on a

‘pitch’ basis with specialist selection panels meeting 4 times a year.

Award for under £300

Individuals can apply for awards of under £300 (over £100) for attending training

courses, workshops, conferences or network events. This is a much quicker application

process - application forms are available on the NFM website or by contacting one of the

administrators.

New Directions

The Social Impact Team organises an annual event (around late November) for the

youth and community sector to learn more about using film as a tool for social and

cultural engagement. The event is also for filmmakers and is an opportunity to

showcase films, share best practice and advertise in the Market Place. Details of the

next event will be posted on the website.

Project Development Surgeries

The Social Impact Team will help you develop your media literacy project. Surgery

days will be advertised on the NFM website and will take place at the Northern Film & Media

office. An appointment can be booked by contacting the Team Administrator. Specific

surgery days are scheduled to support applicants to the First Light youth filmmaking

fund.

Script reading service

The Economic Impact Team provides this free service to underline its support for all

writers from emerging talent to acclaimed professionals. Script advice is provided by our

experienced script assessor Gorel Hallstrom. For details of how to submit a script

please refer to the NFM website or call Helen Stearman on 0191 2699216.

Stingers Short Film Scheme

The Economic Team, in partnership with UK Film Council, run an annual short film

scheme for emerging and developing writer and director talent. Films are produced at

two budget levels and training support is provided via Northern Film and Media and the

National Film & Television School. The scheme launches around May each year.

Training and Development

From improving your CV, to training needs analyses, to specific training events – NFM

can help develop the skills you or your organisation need through:

· Career advice sessions with Vicky Stevens, Career Development Advisor

· Continuing Professional Development advice for practitioners in the community

film production sector with Lisa Laws, Community Initiatives Manager

· Business development with Paul Crozier, Business Link Advisor

· Northern Film & Media training events organised by Victoria Johnson, Training &

Development Manager

· Information about other training provision via Feedback newsletter and is

regularly updated on NFM website