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

Naomi sat on stage with Allistair Elliott (Canada) and Juho Viljanen (Finland) during the panel event.

MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl opened the FIM International Freelance Conference in Brighton, hosted by the Musicians' Union, welcoming delegates from around the world and highlighting the opportunities and challenges facing freelance musicians today.

Published: 23 October 2026

Read more about MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026
The five panellists sat on stage, in purple lighting, with FIM logo behind them.

International Delegates Gather for Day One of FIM Freelance Conference

Delegates at FIM's International Freelance Conference explored collective bargaining, organising freelance musicians and tackling discrimination, sharing international perspectives on improving working conditions and building a fairer, more inclusive music industry.

Published: 23 October 2026

Read more about International Delegates Gather for Day One of FIM Freelance Conference
Person playing acoustic guitar next to a small baby who is smiling.

MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months

The MU Executive Committee has agreed to extend the application period for the parental grant from six months to 12 months following the birth or adoption of a child, making it easier for members to access support when they need it.

Published: 22 October 2026

Read more about MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months
Illustration of a yellow lightbulb with a green leaf inside representing ideas, against a turquoise grey background.

Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action

Can music help tackle the climate crisis? Chris Hutchings, composer and MU Climate Emergency Action Group member, explores how songs can inspire action, build community and help people realise they're part of a much wider movement for change.

Published: 19 October 2026

Read more about Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action