skip to main content

MU Supports WASPI Campaign

Are you a woman born in the 1950s? You may have been detrimentally affected by the 2011 Pension Act. WASPI is campaigning for fairer treatment.

Published: 02 March 2017 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:28 PM

In 1995 the Conservative Government’s Pension Act included plans to increase women’s State Pension Age (SPA) to 65, to be equal with men. However, it took from 1995 to 2011 for any progress to be made. Now there is serious concern about the way it has been implemented.

There was little or no personal notice, and it has been rushed through with many women born in the 1950’s losing out and having had no time to make alternative plans.

For many women, their retirement plans have been shattered with devastating financial consequences because their retirement has been delayed by up to 6 years, and they have no other source of income.

A group of five ordinary women got together in 2015 and decided to fight this injustice, to form WASPI and campaign for fairer transitional arrangements.

If you think you may be affected by this change, visit WASPI for more information and to find a local WASPI group near you.

This campaign is supported by the Trades Union Congress (TUC).

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