Whatever role you play in the music industry, whether a performer, teacher, technician or anything in between, the RSM can help. Image credit: Shutterstock.
The Royal Society of Musicians (RSM) is the oldest music charity in the UK. It’s run by musicians, for musicians, to offer them financial aid, advice and guidance when they are unable to work due to accident, illness, stress or anxiety.
The RSM helps around 500 musicians every year
Whatever role you play in the music industry, whether a performer, teacher, technician or anything in between, the RSM can offer:
- Grants for physical and emotional therapies
- Referrals to specialist practitioners and associated treatments
- Short-term living expenses
If you’re a music professional unable to work because of your physical or mental health, the RSM can help get you back on track with financial assistance, advice and guidance.
Financial aid and counselling
DJ and producer Becky Saif’s physical and mental health suffered because of the pandemic, to the point that it affected her work.
The COVID-19 lockdowns resulted in serious loss of income across the hospitality and nightlife industry, but as well as financial assistance, Becky found that she also needed help to rebuild her sense of identity.
RSM were able to fund counselling, and this combination of support gave Becky the breathing space she needed.
You can read Becky's full story on the RSM website.
Long term support
Toby Thatcher’s long-term musculoskeletal issues and ocular migraines are being managed thanks to support from RSM.
I’ve always had the feeling that my body has been holding me back. The support I’ve received from RSM and Help Musicians has helped to reduce that feeling as I’ve been able to explore these routes to long term sustainable health, and seek specialists when symptoms escalate.
Toby has found that a strong mental health and mindfulness practice, paired with physical therapy, sport, massage and yoga, has helped his ability to manage the symptoms, but it took a long time and financial support to achieve this.
You can read Toby’s full story on the RSM website.
Contact the RSM if your health is stopping you from working
If your health is stopping you from working, contact the RSM today on grants@rsmgb.org or 020 7629 6137.
You can also join the RSM to become a member of a community of more than 2,000 like-minded music professionals across the UK dedicated to helping their fellow musicians in need.
Contact the RSM
Health education workshops for musicians
The RSM and BAPAM are working together to present a series of health education workshops for musicians.
This series of workshops brings together bring specialist practitioners who are experts in the field of performing arts medicine and offers an opportunity for musicians to understand more about the range of health problems they might experience, how to prevent them and how to get help if it is needed.
Healthy techniques for woodwind players
The next workshop is on healthy techniques for woodwind players, and takes place on September 11 from 10:30am - 12:30pm.
You can find out more information about the event and register your place on the RSM's website.
How to prioritise self-care in the music industry
Music Minds Matter is also running a series of online workshops focusing on mental health in the music industry.