“Over the years, I’ve found that the reality of touring can sometimes feel at odds with the dream of it": Radiohead's Philip Selway backs mental health support initiative for touring artists

The fund has been launched in response to an increased risk of stress, burnout, anxiety, clinical depression and suicidality among touring professionals. While larger tours often offer some form of welfare support, Pay It Forward will cater to smaller tour teams that might not be able to provide the same resources due to budget constraints. An initial £272,000 ($370,000 USD) has been raised to support 150 tour teams annually over a three year pilot period, with contributors including various live entertainment organisations, as well as Radiohead drummer Philip Selway, and Live Free 999 - the charity founded by Carmela Wallace, mother of the late artist Juice WRLD. The Tour Health package will include a range of wellbeing resources. One key offering is tour check-ins, confidential conversations with qualified mental health practitioners who understand the realities of music and touring available online 24/7 in several languages. This can be used by any member of the touring team to decompress, navigate decision-making, work, relationships, team tension, discussing coping habits, and more, with no diagnosis, referral, or previous therapy experience required. Each package also include...