A new initiative has been unveiled to bring freelancers, producers and people in the creative sector together to share ideas and boost their businesses.

Hounslow Council has teamed up with Creative People & Places Hounslow, Creative Enterprise West and film/TV producer, CarI Schoenfeld, to provide a free development programme that aims to give producers and freelancers the confidence to reach their creative and business potential during these challenging times.

Cllr Shantanu Rajawat, Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Services, said: "We know that the creative industry has been hugely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

"If you are considering growing your creative business, this is the perfect opportunity to join an exciting new initiative, where you get to meet a small group of creative producers to tackle similar issues, share insights and support one another.

"You'll also have access to expert advice from Carl Schoenfeld, an award-winning TV and film producer and BAFTA voting member, about how you can expand your business and build relationships in the industry.

"We encourage Hounslow residents, who are interested in this free opportunity, to visitfor more information."

The West London Creative Producers programme aims to intensify individual practices, establish initiatives, build lasting relationships with other creative producers and create positive differences to our creative business through these unpredictable times.

The programme will be divided into several sessions. The group will meet fortnightly on Friday afternoons (3.00pm to 5.00pm) through Zoom, starting on Friday 29 January 2021. There will also be an option to meet at the Watermans Arts Centre when restrictions are lifted.

Participants will have the opportunity to share their ideas and chair a meeting and have access to professional support from accountants, lawyers and coaches to help them grow their business.

The deadline for applications is midnight on Monday 18 January 2021.