skip to main content

Government Announcement on Measures to Protect the Self-Employed Anticipated

The prime minister announced last night (Wednesday 25 March) that Government is preparing to announce measures that should put the self-employed on “parity” with employees.

Published: 26 March 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
Westminster building
We will be keeping members updated as soon as we know more. Photo credit: Shutterstock

This move comes after an enormous amount of pressure from across the country – including from all of the MU members who wrote to their MPs – calling on Government to protect all workers and not just the employed.

Although the details of this scheme have not yet been confirmed, it is widely expected that the chancellor Rishi Sunak will announce that self-employed workers will be paid up to 80% of their recent earnings.

We will be keeping members updated as soon as we know more, keep an eye on twitter feed for our most immediate responses.

Call on Government to properly protect freelance workers

If measures for the self-employed and freelancers are on their way, it’s vital that you let Government know what it is you need and how urgently you need it.

We are urgently calling on Government to put in proper protections for freelance workers affected by or self-isolating due to coronavirus.

Join us by emailing, tweeting or writing to your MP. We’ve even published a letter template if you’re not sure what to say.

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

Close up of wooden violin bow.

New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force

Following a decision at the CITES Conference of the Parties, new rules governing the international trade of pernambuco bows came into force on 5 March 2026. Guidance from the UK CITES authority explains what the changes mean for musicians.

Published: 06 March 2026

Read more about New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force
The UK and EU flags, waved together in front of Big Ben in London.

MU Backs Petition Urging UK to Rejoin Creative Europe Programme

The EU/UK Culture Forum has launched a petition calling on the UK Government to rejoin Creative Europe from 2027. The programme supports funding and cultural collaboration across Europe, and the MU is encouraging members to sign and show their support.

Published: 26 February 2026

Read more about MU Backs Petition Urging UK to Rejoin Creative Europe Programme