skip to main content

New Rules for Social Gatherings in England Announced

We are awaiting further details on what the Government’s new restrictions on social gatherings could mean for musicians in England.

Published: 09 September 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
Set up for an outdoor concert, there are lights and a microphone is set up with tables and chairs in the background.
The MU is in discussion with officials to get clear guidance for our members. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The Government has announced that social gatherings of more than six people in England will not be allowed in law from Monday 14 September. The new rule applies to people in private homes, indoors and outdoors, and places such as pubs, restaurants, cafes and public outdoor spaces.

They have also said that the rule does not apply to schools and workplaces, but it is not yet clear how this will affect plans to reintroduce indoor live performance.

The Government will be publishing a list of exemptions before the law changes, and the MU is in discussion with officials to get clear guidance for our members. We will provide an update as soon as possible.

We will be posting updates on our Twitter and Facebook channels, and in our regular Covid-19 email update.

Pressure the Government to act now and protect musicians

We’re not sure yet how the latest announcement will affect musicians, but we do know that despite constant pressure from the MU, the Government’s response to the issues that the coronavirus pandemic is causing for our members remains woefully inadequate.

Help us make the case to the Government for vital financial assistance for musicians by completing our new survey.

It takes less than two minutes to respond and will help us make the case for the Government. Don't forget to share it!

Take our impact survey now.

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

Back shot of a busker, performing in front of a small crowd in London.

MU Calls for Westminster City Council to Keep Music Live in Leicester Square

The MU calls on Westminster City Council to appeal a court ruling which classifies busking in Leicester Square as a "statutory nuisance." The judgment unfairly targets those already following the licensing scheme, and threatens both musicians' livelihoods and the future of street entertainment.

Published: 03 April 2025

Read more about MU Calls for Westminster City Council to Keep Music Live in Leicester Square
Four young musicians in a band, performing on stage.

MU Celebrates Musicians’ Mental Health Month 2025

Back for its fourth year, the Musicians’ Mental Month campaign runs throughout April and features collaborative advice, coaching and workshops from the MU, YCAT, Tonic Rider and BAPAM. This year’s theme will focus on coping strategies.

Published: 01 April 2025

Read more about MU Celebrates Musicians’ Mental Health Month 2025
A young, Black female musician, playing electric guitar in a recording studio.

Fix Streaming: Making the Case for Session Players

How can the music industry fix streaming for session players and ensure that all artists get fair pay from music streaming? Musicians’ Union (MU) General Secretary Naomi Pohl explains...

Published: 28 March 2025

Read more about Fix Streaming: Making the Case for Session Players