skip to main content

Creative industries worth almost £10 million an hour to economy

UK’s Creative Industries are worth £84.1 billion a year to the UK economy, according to DCMS figures.

Published: 27 January 2016 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:28 PM

Figures published by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) show that the UK’s Creative Industries are worth £84.1 billion a year to the UK economy.

DCMS says the sector growing at almost twice the rate of the wider UK economy, growing 8.9% in 2014 and now generating £9.6 million an hour.

The MU is constantly campaigning and lobbying on the issue of arts funding. DCMS’ figures justify our calls for continued investment to ensure the UK’s arts, culture and music remain world class.

Read the full report from DCMS. 

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes accident cover, health schemes, travel insurance and car insurance add-ons through the Musicians’ Union.

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

Claire performing with an acoustic guitar on International Workers’ Day in 2022 in Manchester.

Tribute to Claire Mooney

The Musicians’ Union pays tribute to Claire Mooney, iconic songwriter, activist and former North of England Regional Committee member.

Published: 14 August 2024

Read more about Tribute to Claire Mooney
Multiple raised hands against a bright, white sky, each holding a piece of a wooden jigsaw puzzle. A teamwork, problem-solving concept.

New MU Members’ Assembly Meets For the First Time

Musicians from across the UK recently came together in London for the first meeting of the Union’s new Members’ Assembly, which will explore MU policy issues and campaigns from diverse perspectives.

Published: 09 August 2024

Read more about New MU Members’ Assembly Meets For the First Time
Large wooden sign saying ‘home of Eisteddfod 2024’ on a field in Pontypridd.

MU Attends Eisteddfod 2024 For the First Time

The National Eisteddfod, which celebrates Welsh culture and language, takes place this week in Pontypridd and the MU will be present for the first time as we work to develop the Union's Welsh language provision. Members are also invited to meet their regional officials there on 9 August.

Published: 08 August 2024

Read more about MU Attends Eisteddfod 2024 For the First Time