skip to main content

MU Deputy General Secretary Talks to M Magazine on Ending Sexual Harassment at Work

MU Deputy General Secretary Naomi Pohl spoke to M Magazine about Safe Space and changing the culture of the music industry to end sexual harassment at work.

Published: 12 November 2021 | 12:30 PM
Silhouette of a  person standing against a stage light, the light is shining through their shoulder length hair.
No-one should experience or fear sexual harassment or abuse on campus or at work. Photo credit: Shutterstock

In the article which is available on PRS for Music’s website, Naomi discusses common problems in the music industry and examples that musicians have raised with the union.

These include aspects of touring culture, such as a lack of female dressing rooms. The issue was recently highlighted by Self Esteem as well as MU members participating at roundtables and Women’s Network meetings.

The M Magazine article also considers the huge imbalances of power in the music industry, which the MU’s Safe Space initiative and Protect Freelancers Too campaigning work seeks to address.

Read more from Naomi in M Magazine

A Safe Space for reporting

In recent months, artists such as Rebecca Ferguson and women working across the industry, have shone a spotlight on abuse by senior figures and organisations in the industry, detailing their experiences which range from sexual harassment and assault to bullying and coercive control.

No-one should experience or fear sexual harassment or abuse on campus or at work. The MU launched Safe Space to allow musicians to share instances of sexism, sexual harassment and sexual abuse they have experienced working as a musician.

Report your experiences, or cases that you have witnessed, in confidence via the MU’s Safe Space tools.

Changing the law to protect musicians

This summer, the Government committed to introducing a mandatory duty on employers to prevent sexual harassment at work and explicit protections for harassment by third parties.

It’s good news, but some freelancers like musicians will still miss out on those protections from sexual harassment at work. Add your voice to the call for change.

Sign the petition to protect freelancers too

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 person holding a pen and paper over a keyboard.

Have Your Say on Streaming: DCMS Launches Survey for Songwriters

If you have attended a songwriting session for a major label since September 2025, the DCMS wants to hear from you. Your feedback will help evaluate measures introduced following the UK streaming inquiry and strengthen the case for fair pay for music creators.

Published: 15 October 2026

Read more about Have Your Say on Streaming: DCMS Launches Survey for Songwriters
Person sat in front of an open laptop wearing headphones and programming music.

MU to Host Sustainable Careers Roundtable at Sensoria Pro in Sheffield

The MU are hosting a roundtable discussion, ‘The Long Play: Building a Sustainable Career in Music’, at Sensoria Pro — a conference exploring innovation across music and the moving image — in Sheffield on Friday 23 October. Members can also receive a 25% discount on tickets.

Published: 15 October 2026

Read more about MU to Host Sustainable Careers Roundtable at Sensoria Pro in Sheffield
Six women on stage in front of an audience. Behind them is a screen saying

‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music

Donne Women in Music’s latest report reveals how underrepresented composers receive a smaller share of orchestral programme time than their share of programmed works, highlighting persistent inequalities in global repertoire.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about ‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music
Poppy and her band at the poolside performing live. People are in the water, in rings and inflatables watching. Banners and balloons are behind the band.

Making Waves: Creating Your Own Opportunities as an Independent Musician

After turning a love of swimming into a fully funded EP, music video and poolside live show, young musician and Wales & South West England Regional Committee member Poppy Rose reflects on the value of backing yourself, embracing niche ideas and making opportunities happen on your own terms.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about Making Waves: Creating Your Own Opportunities as an Independent Musician