The Comedy Support Act has launched its website. The organisation is a benevolent fund to help comics who through serious illness or accident find themselves in financial hardship.

The organisation, which was the brainchild of Dave Johns (pictured) will raise money primarily through benefit shows. The first one is January 19, 2015 at the London Comedy Store and features Dave Johns MCing, Alan Davies, Milton Jones, Phill Jupitus, Stephen K Amos, Marcus Brigstocke, Zoe Lyons, Nick Helm, Sara Pascoe, Dana Alexander, Brennan Reece and Raymond & Mr Timkins Revue. Tickets can be booked here.

The intention is for the CSA  (not to be confused with the Child Support Agency) to be a fund of last resort. No money will be paid direct to an individual but to providers and suppliers, to cover costs such as rent, electricity, gas, etc until comedians can start earning again. The website will also have links to other organisations that can help with problems such as insurance, mental health issues and substance abuse. 

A board of trustees has been set up, consisting of photographer Andy Hollingsworth, radio producer Trudi Stephens, the actor Kevin Eldon, comedian Lynn Chambers and agent Debi Allen.

More details here.