skip to main content

TUC Call For Furlough Scheme to Open for Working Parents

The TUC have released a report calling for a temporary legal right to access the furlough scheme for parents, those with caring responsibilities and people who cannot work because they are required to shield.

Published: 22 January 2021 | 11:32 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:32 PM
A baby is held by their mums, one holds her arms around the baby, while one reaches around the baby to hold the other mums arms
Nine out of ten mums say their mental health has been negatively impacted experiencing levels of stress and anxiety. Photo credit: Shutterstock

In a new report from the Trades Union Congress (TUC), titled “Working mums: Paying the price,” the federation make a number of key recommendations – calling on the Government to provide the temporary right to furlough for workers who can prove that their existing childcare or other caring arrangements have been substantially altered because of coronavirus related restrictions, or those who are required to “shield,” due to being extremely clinically vulnerable.

The call originates from research detailed in their report, which shows how Covid-19 restrictions have had a significant impact on working mums’ wellbeing, income and job security, including how:

  • 7 in 10 requests for furlough have been turned down for working mums
  • Nine out of ten mums say their mental health has been negatively impacted experiencing levels of stress and anxiety
  • One-quarter of mums (25 per cent) are worried they will lose their job, either through being singled out for redundancy, sacked or denied hours
  • One-quarter of mums (25 per cent) are worried they will lose their job, either through being singled out for redundancy, sacked or denied hours

Read and download the full report from the TUC’s 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

Close up of person holding a pen and paper over a keyboard.

Have Your Say on Streaming: DCMS Launches Survey for Songwriters

If you have attended a songwriting session for a major label since September 2025, the DCMS wants to hear from you. Your feedback will help evaluate measures introduced following the UK streaming inquiry and strengthen the case for fair pay for music creators.

Published: 15 October 2026

Read more about Have Your Say on Streaming: DCMS Launches Survey for Songwriters
Person sat in front of an open laptop wearing headphones and programming music.

MU to Host Sustainable Careers Roundtable at Sensoria Pro in Sheffield

The MU are hosting a roundtable discussion, ‘The Long Play: Building a Sustainable Career in Music’, at Sensoria Pro — a conference exploring innovation across music and the moving image — in Sheffield on Friday 23 October. Members can also receive a 25% discount on tickets.

Published: 15 October 2026

Read more about MU to Host Sustainable Careers Roundtable at Sensoria Pro in Sheffield
Six women on stage in front of an audience. Behind them is a screen saying

‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music

Donne Women in Music’s latest report reveals how underrepresented composers receive a smaller share of orchestral programme time than their share of programmed works, highlighting persistent inequalities in global repertoire.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about ‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music
Poppy and her band at the poolside performing live. People are in the water, in rings and inflatables watching. Banners and balloons are behind the band.

Making Waves: Creating Your Own Opportunities as an Independent Musician

After turning a love of swimming into a fully funded EP, music video and poolside live show, young musician and Wales & South West England Regional Committee member Poppy Rose reflects on the value of backing yourself, embracing niche ideas and making opportunities happen on your own terms.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about Making Waves: Creating Your Own Opportunities as an Independent Musician