skip to main content

Call For Government to Protect Musicians Gains Media Coverage Across the UK

Huge numbers of members and non-member musicians have responded to our coronavirus impact survey.

Published: 24 March 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
People stacking hands together
The MU's coronavirus impact survey shows an urgent interest across the country in protecting the UK’s music industry, and how vital it is to protect musicians. Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

The figures recorded so far have been reported across the media – giving solid evidence to our call for better protections for musicians and the music industry.

We’ve been asking musicians to fill in our coronavirus impact survey. You’ve been letting us know how the situation is affecting your work, and calculating what it has cost you.

Thanks to everyone who has responded so far the data recorded has seen wide-spread coverage. So far there have been articles in major national print and online publications – as well as over 40 regional news sources.

It shows an urgent interest across the country in protecting the UK’s music industry, and how vital it is that we act now to protect musicians.

Coverage across the media

Coverage of our statistics in major news sources includes:

Call on Government to properly protect freelance workers

Whilst the public's eye is on how musicians are being affected by the pandemic – we urgently need to call on Government to put in proper protections for freelance workers affected by or self-isolating due to coronavirus.

Join us by writing to your MP. We’ve even published a letter template if you’re not sure what to say.

Find out how to take action now

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

An orchestra rehearsal with young people playing various instruments, two have adaptive instruments.

MU Marks Disability History Month 2025

Celebrate UK Disability History Month 2025 with this curated round-up of news and resources for disabled musicians and anyone seeking to strengthen their knowledge and allyship. Discover funding tips, networking opportunities, MU support and more.

Published: 05 December 2025

Read more about MU Marks Disability History Month 2025
Sticky note with human head and green cross icon, representing health and wellness.

Life Support: How BAPAM Supports Artists and Why the MU Proudly Backs its Work

A life in the arts often brings physical or psychological challenges, but BAPAM can offer vital support. Trustee and MU National Organiser for Education, Health and Wellbeing Chris Walters explains why the Union is proud to champion its work and how its services can benefit members.

Published: 04 December 2025

Read more about Life Support: How BAPAM Supports Artists and Why the MU Proudly Backs its Work
Flags of the United Kingdom and the European Union next to each other.

Organisations from Across UK and Europe Join Forces to Remove Barriers to Touring and Drive Growth

A new UK–EU Cultural Exchange Coalition has launched today, uniting the MU and major creative organisations to push for removing post-Brexit touring barriers. The alliance seeks to turn political promises on cultural exchange into action supporting artists and renewing collaboration.

Published: 03 December 2025

Read more about Organisations from Across UK and Europe Join Forces to Remove Barriers to Touring and Drive Growth
An aerial view of Derry in Northern Ireland.

MU to Attend NW Music Makers Forum in Derry

Members are invited to join the MU in attending the NW Music Makers Forum in Derry to discuss collaborative support for the live music sector. Taking place on Friday 12 December 2025.

Published: 02 December 2025

Read more about MU to Attend NW Music Makers Forum in Derry