This is very welcome news for our independent cinemas, which play a vital cultural role across the country. Today’s announcement will help many of them to reopen soon and safely for audiences and staff, and bring communities and film lovers together again. We are grateful to Government for recognising the importance of our film culture.

Ben Roberts, BFI Chief Executive

Earlier this week, £1.57 billion support was announced from DCMS to the cultural, arts, and heritages sectors, including independent cinemas.

The BFI will be among the bodies working with the government to make decisions on the awards, alongside Historic England, the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Arts Council England (ACE).

Further details will be announced in the coming weeks, and we will keep you updated.