The Rory Peck Training Fund which enables freelance journalists to gain the essential skills and knowledge needed to work in difficult and potentially dangerous situations is now open. The emphasis is on safety training which is seen as vitally important for freelance journalists planning to work in hostile environments.
Currently, The Rory Peck Training Fund which was launched in 2000 is offering grant support to Freelance journalists for hostile environment and first aid training courses. However, the bursaries are limited and given on a case-by-case basis.
The Trust which works with six-course providers is also advising applicants to carry out diligent research on the available courses before making a decision. Prospective applicants can access the course providers online at https://rorypecktrust.org/freelance-assistance/training-fund/course-providers.
Issues to be considered, according to the organisation are:
- course dates
- location
- price (some providers reduce their rates for Rory Peck bursary recipients, others offer specially-discounted courses at different times of the year)
- course content and delivery
Previously, the Training Fund gave hundreds of bursaries to freelance journalists, photographers, camera operators and filmmakers to allow them to take part in specific training courses teaching them to assess risk and spot danger, handle a crisis, support others and give vital first aid.
Eligible applicants for the training programme are freelancers who have a minimum of 18 months experience in newsgathering and/or current affairs.
The number of bursaries will be prioritised and given to freelancers whose work frequently takes them into hostile environments, and to those with a confirmed assignment.
Applicants for the Rory Peck Training Fund bursary are expected to download the Bursary Application Form from https://rorypecktrust.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/rory-peck-training-fund-application-3.doc, complete and forward same, with an up-to-date CV and application letter giving cogent reasons for applying.
In addition, applicants must include the contact details of two referees who can endorse their applications and vouch for their work as freelancers.
Processing applications and approving the bursaries for the Rory Peck Training Fund takes between one and three weeks upon receipt of the application form and supporting documents.
Rory Peck Trust, however, advises applicants to inform their referees to contact the Trust in the bid to hasten the process.
