skip to main content

TUC Congress Supports the Inclusion of Freelancers in TUC Policy

TUC Congress delegates from across the movement showed their support for freelancers, voting for the inclusion of freelance workers in TUC policy.

Published: 11 September 2019 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
Photograph of trumpet
Photo credit: Shutterstock

“It’s our unfailing duty as trade unionists to find inventive ways to support such workers because that’s what they are,” MU delegate Rab Noakes told Congress.

“In our union, the Musicians’ Union, no more than 20% of our members are workplace employees. More and more we are finding ways to help and support the freelance and self-employed,” he explained.

“Many people I know have, in fact, chosen to be self-employed. Comrades, our whole trades union movement needs now, and I mean now, to find ways to support people whose engagement with the world of work is like this”.

“Let’s address this matter also and not only support current freelance and self-employed workers in the present but prepare to do so into a fervently fluid future,” added Rab.

Our thanks go to all delegations who voted for the motion, and speakers in support.

Full text of Motion 28

Conference acknowledges and applauds the work of the TUC in protecting workers from across all sectors in the UK.

In the growing ‘gig economy’ climate, we recognise that organising workers has become more complex and that TUC policy has had to adjust accordingly.

In campaigning for improved terms and conditions for the ‘falsely’ self-employed it is important to remember that many truly self-employed workers, particularly musicians and performers are keen to maintain their self-employed status whilst still needing Union representation.

We call on the TUC to ensure that all policy work and consultation responses adequately represent freelancers as well as employed workers.

Find out how you can get more involved in the MU’s work to improve conditions for all musicians.

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

Four young musicians in a band, performing on stage.

MU Celebrates Musicians’ Mental Health Month 2025

Back for its fourth year, the Musicians’ Mental Month campaign runs throughout April and features collaborative advice, coaching and workshops from the MU, YCAT, Tonic Rider and BAPAM. This year’s theme will focus on coping strategies.

Published: 01 April 2025

Read more about MU Celebrates Musicians’ Mental Health Month 2025
A young, Black female musician, playing electric guitar in a recording studio.

Fix Streaming: Making the Case for Session Players

How can the music industry fix streaming for session players and ensure that all artists get fair pay from music streaming? Musicians’ Union (MU) General Secretary Naomi Pohl explains...

Published: 28 March 2025

Read more about Fix Streaming: Making the Case for Session Players