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 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

Cardboard box with mics in and around to capture organic sound for the shoe box scene.

Wider Than The Sky: Janie Price on First Time Scriptwriting and Composing for Short Film

Musician Janie Price aka Bird has just released her first short film soundtrack ‘Wider Than The Sky’, she’s also been a member of the MU for 24 years. In this guest blog, she shares her journey and advice for other members intrigued by the world of score design and DIY projects.

Published: 15 July 2024

Read more about Wider Than The Sky: Janie Price on First Time Scriptwriting and Composing for Short Film
Black and white image of Gil sat at a piano in his younger years.

Tribute to Gil Martin

Gilbert Alexander Martin was a successful and highly accomplished pianist, as well as a lifelong member and supporter of the Musician's Union. He passed away on 29 May 2024. This tribute has been provided by Gil’s daughters, Gillian and Susan.

Published: 11 July 2024

Read more about Tribute to Gil Martin
Sir Kier Starmer Labour leader giving his first speech after winning the general election and becoming prime minister on 5 July.

MU Welcomes New Labour Government and Meets New MPs

Having been so heavily involved in forming Labour policy and the manifesto, we look forward to working with the new Government to implement meaningful change for the country and for musicians.

Published: 11 July 2024

Read more about MU Welcomes New Labour Government and Meets New MPs