skip to main content

Call for Evidence on Employer Responses to Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

We encourage members to take part in the Fawcett Society’s call for evidence on sexual harassment in the workplace, particularly to make sure that freelance voices are heard.

Published: 12 January 2021 | 2:31 PM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:32 PM
Photograph of five women, all looking different from each other, walking through a field with their arms linked around each other.
The Fawcett Society want to understand what employer responses work well and what employers need to do differently in response to sexual harassment reports. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The Fawcett Society has recently launched a call for evidence on employer responses to sexual harassment in the workplace.

They want to hear from women who have who have experienced workplace sexual harassment about how their employer responded and what they thought about the response.

They know that the process of reporting workplace sexual harassment can be painful and employer responses are often inadequate and inappropriate. They are seeking evidence from women who have gone through the process of reporting their experience to understand what employer responses work well and what employers need to do differently.

They will use this evidence to inform their understanding of what works in tackling workplace sexual harassment and to develop resources for employers that give them the tools and skills needed to combat sexual harassment in their workplace.

As the focus of this work is on employer responses – and the experience may have been traumatic – they will not ask respondents to recount the actual experience. Rather, the questions will focus on their employer’s actions and suggestions for how employers can better support their employees.

This work is part of Fawcett’s Tackling Sexual Harassment in the Workplace project that they are running with Chwarae Teg, Close the Gap and Women’s Resource and Development Agency, funded by Rosa through Time’s Up Justice and Equality Fund.

Contributions from MU members will help to ensure that the voices of freelance workers are represented alongside those on payroll. We would also be grateful if you could share the call for evidence on your social media channels and amongst your networks.

Find out more and access the survey on the Fawcett Society’s website now.

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

An orchestra rehearsal with young people playing various instruments, two have adaptive instruments.

MU Marks Disability History Month 2025

Celebrate UK Disability History Month 2025 with this curated round-up of news and resources for disabled musicians and anyone seeking to strengthen their knowledge and allyship. Discover funding tips, networking opportunities, MU support and more.

Published: 05 December 2025

Read more about MU Marks Disability History Month 2025
Sticky note with human head and green cross icon, representing health and wellness.

Life Support: How BAPAM Supports Artists and Why the MU Proudly Backs its Work

A life in the arts often brings physical or psychological challenges, but BAPAM can offer vital support. Trustee and MU National Organiser for Education, Health and Wellbeing Chris Walters explains why the Union is proud to champion its work and how its services can benefit members.

Published: 04 December 2025

Read more about Life Support: How BAPAM Supports Artists and Why the MU Proudly Backs its Work
Flags of the United Kingdom and the European Union next to each other.

Organisations from Across UK and Europe Join Forces to Remove Barriers to Touring and Drive Growth

A new UK–EU Cultural Exchange Coalition has launched today, uniting the MU and major creative organisations to push for removing post-Brexit touring barriers. The alliance seeks to turn political promises on cultural exchange into action supporting artists and renewing collaboration.

Published: 03 December 2025

Read more about Organisations from Across UK and Europe Join Forces to Remove Barriers to Touring and Drive Growth
An aerial view of Derry in Northern Ireland.

MU to Attend NW Music Makers Forum in Derry

Members are invited to join the MU in attending the NW Music Makers Forum in Derry to discuss collaborative support for the live music sector. Taking place on Friday 12 December 2025.

Published: 02 December 2025

Read more about MU to Attend NW Music Makers Forum in Derry