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

Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool at sunset.

Outer Waves Festival Returns to Liverpool with MU Member Discount

Outer Waves Festival, the North West's newest celebration of underground arts returns to Liverpool 23-24 May 2026. MU North of England Regional Officer Philip Morris will join a panel on gentrification, and MU members can access discounted weekend tickets.

Published: 13 May 2026

Member only Read more about Outer Waves Festival Returns to Liverpool with MU Member Discount
Women sat in front of some water at sunset with headphones on.

Three in Four Performing Arts Professionals Face Career-Impacting Health Issues Says New BAPAM Report

A new BAPAM Impact Report reveals that 75% of performing arts professionals will face a career-impacting health issue, as demand for specialist support reaches record levels. The MU is among the organisations supporting BAPAM’s work to improve health provision across the sector.

Published: 13 May 2026

Read more about Three in Four Performing Arts Professionals Face Career-Impacting Health Issues Says New BAPAM Report
13 members of the Board gathered in front of some stairs.

MU Joins Newcastle Gateshead Music City Strategic Board

The MU has joined the new Newcastle Gateshead Music City Strategic Board alongside artists, venues, labels, media professionals, academics and industry experts. The Board will help shape the future of the region’s music sector and support long-term growth across the local music ecosystem.

Published: 11 May 2026

Read more about MU Joins Newcastle Gateshead Music City Strategic Board
The panellists sat on the stage with microphones, in front of a screen with saying

MU Panel Explores Rates, Rights and Royalties at Sound City 2026

At Liverpool Sound City Conference 2026, the MU brought together industry professionals and working musicians for its ‘Money in the Mix’ panel to demystify these issues and offer practical insights into building a sustainable career in session work.

Published: 11 May 2026

Read more about MU Panel Explores Rates, Rights and Royalties at Sound City 2026