skip to main content

New Report on Impact of Covid-19 on Parents and Carers in the Performing Arts Published by PiPA

Campaigning organisation Parents & Carers in Performing Arts (PiPA) have published a new report on the impact of Covid-19, focusing on groups which are currently underrepresented in the sector.

Published: 03 February 2021 | 5:11 PM Updated: 25 June 2024 | 2:58 PM
Photograph of a small baby in a floor seat, a musician is leaning over them playing guitar.
There is a significant risk of female talent haemorrhage in the performing arts sector with many facing an uncertain future. Photo credit: Shutterstock

Today PiPA has published a new report looking at the impact of Covid-19 on parents and carers in the sector, with a focus on those groups which are currently underrepresented in the performing arts.

Whilst there is a general lack of work in the sector as a direct result of lockdown measures, the situation is compounded for parents and carers who are overwhelmed by the stress of homeschooling or other caregiving demands and feel unable to compete for the few opportunities that are available.

There is a significant risk of female talent haemorrhage in the performing arts sector with many facing an uncertain future and having to choose between supporting a family and staying in the sector. The report finds that women, D/deaf and disabled people and solo parents and carers are the hardest hit.

Key findings include that:

  • 25% of women have involuntarily become full-time carers
  • Only one third (37%) are certain that they will stay in the industry
  • Over one third of women with caring responsibilities are experiencing a mental health crisis
  • Government support has disadvantaged mothers and female carers working in the performing arts

You can download the full report from their website.

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

Portrait of Jeff, smiling in a blue shirt.

Tribute to Jeffrey Raymond Wakefield

An accomplished professional violinist, Jeff Wakefield enjoyed a distinguished orchestral career and took great pride in his lifelong association with the Musicians' Union, of which he became a member in 1952. This tribute was written by his son-in-law, David Marcou.

Published: 14 August 2026

Read more about Tribute to Jeffrey Raymond Wakefield
Young Black musician, wearing headphones, In the foreground is a recording mic and pop shield.

Meet the MU at PITCH Scotland 2026

Meet the MU’s Sam Jordan and Louise Stanners Pow at this year’s hip hop conference and festival, and learn more about copyright, sampling, ownership and collaboration.

Published: 13 August 2026

Read more about Meet the MU at PITCH Scotland 2026
Martin, sat at the table of a formal dinner, dressed in a suit, smiling.

Tribute to Martin Bowen

Martin Bowen enjoyed a long and distinguished career as a professional bassoonist and was deeply committed to the Musicians' Union. After joining in 1973, he served with dedication as an MU Steward for BBC NOW. This tribute has been written by his brother-in-law, John.

Published: 06 August 2026

Read more about Tribute to Martin Bowen