skip to main content

Call for a Violence Against Women & Girls Stategy in Northern Ireland

Members are encouraged to sign Women's Aid Federation Northern Ireland’s petition calling for a Violence Against Women & Girls Strategy in Northern Ireland, which is quickly amassing signiaturies on Change dot org.

Published: 22 March 2021 | 10:46 AM Updated: 21 July 2021 | 5:08 PM
Silhouette of a mother and daughter stood against a bright light.
A specific strategies helps foster a meaningful focus on the need to stop gender-based violence against women and girls in their nations. Photo credit: Shutterstock

Northern Ireland, unlike every other part of the United Kingdom, is the only region that does not have a specific strategy to help bring an end to violence against women and girls.

The MU’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion committee have noted that Women's Aid Federation Northern Ireland have begun a prominent petition – with over 15,000 signatures so far and rising quickly – calling for a specific strategy around violence against women and girls.

In England, Scotland and Wales, these specific strategies mean that there is a meaningful focus from regional governments on the need to stop gender-based violence against women and girls in their nations. By signing this petition, you can make a difference to every woman and girl in Northern Ireland.

Musicians are encouraged to sign the petition on the Change dot org website.

MU Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, John Shortell explained the significance of the petition:

“Northern Ireland is the only part of the United Kingdom that does not have a specific strategy to tackle gender-based violence, this means that women and girls are being let down because of where they live. The MU supports the calls for a comprehensive strategy in Northern Ireland to tackle violence against women and girls.”

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

A light blue background with white blocks featuring a speech bubble and three dots inside, representing talking. There is one block above them which has a red stop sign inside.

MU Reiterates Position on Freedom of Expression and Discrimination

In light of recent cases in which artists have had performances cancelled after expressing personal political views, the MU has reiterated its position on freedom of expression, political speech and opposition to all forms of hate and discrimination.

Published: 16 September 2026

Read more about MU Reiterates Position on Freedom of Expression and Discrimination
The back of a crowd of people holding black placards which show a fist holding crunched up paper with the text

Join the MU at Birmingham’s Unity Rally

On Sunday 4 October, the MU Midlands region will join more than 60 organisations, affiliated TUC trade unions, community groups and charities in Birmingham for a rally celebrating unity over division and hate. MU members are encouraged to join us on the day.

Published: 16 September 2026

Read more about Join the MU at Birmingham’s Unity Rally
A suitcase with an EU and UK flag sticker on, covered in red tape.

New Report Highlights £208 Million Cost of Brexit Touring Barriers

Research commissioned by the Government estimates that Brexit-related touring barriers cost the UK touring sector £208 million and nearly 2,500 jobs between 2022 and 2024, prompting renewed calls for practical solutions to make EU touring more viable.

Published: 11 September 2026

Read more about New Report Highlights £208 Million Cost of Brexit Touring Barriers
A rock musician performing with a microphone on an orange-lit stage with smoke in the air.

Arts Council England Launches New Music Creators Growth Fund

Experienced artists and music creators can apply for grants of £10,000 to £20,000 to support career development, touring and international opportunities. Applications open on 1 October 2026, with guidance webinars available to attend throughout September and October.

Published: 11 September 2026

Read more about Arts Council England Launches New Music Creators Growth Fund