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 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

A DJ performing at an outdoor festival in Croatia.

Positive News for Artists Gigging in Croatia

The Croatian Parliament has passed amendments to the Aliens Act, meaning UK artists and crew performing or touring in Croatia for less than three months no longer need a visa and work authorisation certificates.

Published: 13 March 2025

Read more about Positive News for Artists Gigging in Croatia

Katrina Lee for Women’s History Month: "Be a Part of the Growing Community of Active Thinkers and Do-ers"

In our second blog for Women’s History Month 2025, Violinist and MU member Katrina Lee explores her journey as musician in relation to activism and social change, and discusses how her new album celebrates female composers and the violin in its virtuosity as a solo instrument.

Published: 12 March 2025

Read more about Katrina Lee for Women’s History Month: "Be a Part of the Growing Community of Active Thinkers and Do-ers"