Online Harassment

A visible online presence is an essential part of many musicians’ careers, but for some it can come with online abuse. Here is a list of resources you may find useful.

Last updated: 20 June 2025

Support helplines

Members who experience online harassment can contact Help Musicians' helpline, open to anyone who experiences bullying and harassment in the industry.

The MU’s Safe Space scheme also provides a safe space for musicians to report instances of sexual harassment and abuse in the music industry. Report your experiences to Safe Space.

There are many organisations providing mental health and wellbeing support. Take a look at our full list of organisations that may be particularly useful to musicians.

Stalking and cyberstalking

The Suzy Lamplugh Trust is a personal safety charity and leading authority on stalking including cyberstalking. Resources include the National Stalking Helpline, the Am I Being Stalked? assessment tool, and practical advice on staying safe online.

Tech abuse is real.

Tech abuse is the use of technology by abusers to control, harass or intimidate. In 2019, 72% of Refuge’s service users reported experiencing tech abuse.

Refuge has launched a tech safety hub to help you stay safe online. It includes an explanation of tech abuse with examples of what it may look like, and advice on how to secure your tech on your phone, tablet and other devices as well as in your home.

Encouraging solidarity

Glitch encourages everyone to do their bit to make online spaces safer for everyone – including those who do not experience online abuse. Read their advice on how you can be an Online Active Bystander and share it with your fans, colleagues, friends and other networks.

The Suzy Lamplugh Trust runs National Stalking Awareness Week every April, as well as campaigning on personal safety and stalking issues and organising events, conferences and training sessions throughout the year.

Refuge provides advice on recognising tech abuse, and what do if you think someone you know is experiencing tech abuse.

Remember your commitment as an MU member

Every MU member signs up to the MU’s Rules when they join. That includes a commitment “to oppose actively all forms of harassment, prejudice and unfair discrimination whether on the grounds of sex, race, ethnic or national origin, religion, colour, class, caring responsibilities, marital status, sexuality, disability, age, or other status or personal characteristic” in the MU’s objects (goals / purpose).

Latest news and features

View from behind a person on stage against smoke and lighting, their arms are raised as they explain something, holding a pen and paper.

MU Launches New Guidance for MDs and AMDs in Theatre

The MU is pleased to launch two practical guides for Musical Directors (MDs) and Assistant Musical Directors (AMDs) working in theatre, covering key responsibilities, standard terms and conditions, and practical advice.

Published: 10 April 2026

Two parents holding their new born baby at home.

Share Your Experience: PiPA Invites Parents and Carers to Touring Roundtables in Wales

Parents & Carers in Performing Arts (PiPA) is hosting two in-person roundtables in Wales this May and June, inviting freelancers and organisations to share their experiences of balancing touring with caring responsibilities and help develop practical solutions for a more inclusive sector.

Published: 10 April 2026

Open hands holding a paper chain of connected people, one is in a wheelchair, representing unity and equality.

New Report by Radical Body Highlights Barriers Facing Disabled Arts Workers

A new research project drawing on the experiences of more than 250 disabled creatives highlights ongoing access barriers in the arts sector. In response, Radical Body has also launched a micro-grant scheme for disabled artists who struggle to leave their homes, applications close 20 April.

Published: 09 April 2026

Four young musicians in a band, performing on stage.

MU Marks Musicians' Mental Health Month for Fifth Year with Focus on Imposter Syndrome

YCAT's annual Musicians’ Mental Health Month returns this April with a focus on imposter syndrome, offering free coaching, therapy and resources for musicians in partnership with the Musicians’ Union and leading health organisations.

Published: 02 April 2026

Ruth and Siân, standing in a bright indoor space holding a large poster of the front cover of the new Engaging Creative Freelancers Guide.

New Bilingual Guide Champions Fair Work for Creative Freelancers in Wales

CULT Cymru, in partnership with the Musicians’ Union, has published a bilingual best practice guide to support creative freelancers, venues and organisations in creating fairer, safer working environments across Wales’ creative sector.

Published: 04 March 2026

Get advice and support on mental health and physical wellbeing

Discover a wealth of advice and resources to help musicians to look after their mental health and physical wellbeing.

MU member services

Find out how to take care of yourself and sustain a healthy lifestyle as a musician
Practical resources to help you to keep mentally well
Join the MU's online Feldenkrais and meditation sessions
Access healthcare services tailored to musicians' needs

Explore wellbeing for musicians

Get advice and support on mental health and physical wellbeing