skip to main content

Central Belt of Scotland Restrictions Apply to Non-Professional Activities

The new lockdown restrictions for the central belt of Scotland mean that between 10 and 25 October, organised non-professional performing arts activities are not permitted outdoors.

Published: 13 October 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
Photograph of a stretch of bridge over the Clyde River in Glasgow.
The rules for the rest of Scotland remain that restrictions such as the ‘rule of six’ do not apply where there is other sector specific guidance in force. Photo credit: Shutterstock

An amendment has been made to the Scottish Performing Arts Guidance, relating to non-professionals engaged in organised outdoor activity managed by an organisation. This is not permitted for performing arts activities in the central belt area for the period of additional restrictions.

These changes come as part of the additional national and local measures in place for Scotland from 10 October to 25 October, which were announced by the First Minister.

The rules for the rest of Scotland remain that restrictions such as the ‘rule of six’ do not apply where there is other sector specific guidance in force. This means that non-professional musicians in Scotland can play together in groups both indoors and outdoors. However this must be done in line with the Scottish Government’s legislation and their guidance on staying safe.

Further advice

See our FAQ page for further advice on how the varying Covid-19 restrictions affect musicians. We’re updating them as often as we can however, the advice from the Government is changing quickly – keep an eye on our Twitter channel for our latest updates.

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

People marching across a village with thatched roofs, holding hand made union banners.

Celebrate Union Pride with the MU at Tolpuddle 2025

Members are invited to join us at this year’s Tolpuddle Martyrs Festival - the biggest celebration of the trade union movement in the Southwest - taking place 18 to 20 July in the beautiful Dorset village of Tolpuddle.

Published: 13 June 2025

Read more about Celebrate Union Pride with the MU at Tolpuddle 2025
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves on stage making a speech at the Labour Party Conference in 2023.

Increased Money for the Creative Industries in Government Spending Review

Yesterday Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves set out her Comprehensive Spending Review. Having lobbied the Government for additional money for music, it was positive to see the Government announce a "significant increase in funding for the creative industries" as a key “growth sector".

Published: 12 June 2025

Read more about Increased Money for the Creative Industries in Government Spending Review
Last year's parade, hundreds of people walking down the narrow historic main street, holding large colourful banners and balloons.

March With the MU at Durham Miners’ Gala 2025

Members are invited to join us on Saturday 12 July for the Durham Miners’ Gala – the world’s biggest celebration of trade union values, community spirit, and working-class life.

Published: 12 June 2025

Read more about March With the MU at Durham Miners’ Gala 2025