"It is really important that we offer grants to all MU members on an equal basis regardless of their gender or how they have their children". Image credit: Shutterstock.
The MU is pleased to confirm that Parental Grants of £275 are available to all new parents who are MU members (subject to eligibility). This is an increase from the previous award of £250 and now also includes multiple births or adoptions.
The application process has also been amended so that it is gender-neutral for parents.
John Shortell, the MU's Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, said:
"It is really important that we offer grants to all MU members on an equal basis regardless of their gender or how they have their children. We are also really pleased to offer additional financial support to musicians in the case of a multiple birth or adoptions. It can be difficult for self-employed parents taking time off work and meeting the costs of a new child, or children, so we hope this will go some way to help in those early days of parenthood."
Other grants and financial support
The MU can also confirm that a funeral grant of £275 is payable in respect of MU members whose death occurs during their membership, which again is an increase from the previous amount of £250.
For more information and to check your eligibility for these grants, as well as further details on other sources of financial support, please visit our dedicated membership benefits page.