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

Silhouette of crowd with their hands in the air, watching a small outdoor stage, lit by blue lights. Confetti falls from the sky.

MU Welcomes Launch of Northern Music Export Office and UKAT Fund Boost

The MU has welcomed the launch of the Northern Music Export Office (NMEO), calling it a significant step towards creating more opportunities for musicians across the North and helping artists build sustainable careers at home while reaching audiences worldwide.

Published: 25 August 2026

Read more about MU Welcomes Launch of Northern Music Export Office and UKAT Fund Boost
Jack onstage as an older man, wearing a white shirt and playing trombone.

Tribute to John 'Jackie' Free

Jack Free was a talented trombonist who performed alongside some of the great names in jazz during a career spanning more than six decades. He was a proud and long-standing member of the Musicians’ Union, having originally joined in 1956. This tribute has been written by his son, Colin.

Published: 25 August 2026

Read more about Tribute to John 'Jackie' Free
Close up of a Germany visa stamp on a passport.

New Guidance for Musicians Working in Germany

New MU guidance outlines the rules for musicians working in Germany, including work permit exemptions, visa requirements and key considerations for performers accepting engagements in the country.

Published: 20 August 2026

Read more about New Guidance for Musicians Working in Germany