The aim of the project is to empower participants to navigate caregiving challenges whilst continuing their musical careers. Photo: Shutterstock.
Nine in ten parents and carers working in music have to turn down work due to caregiving responsibilities and lack of support, with four in ten considering leaving the industry.
Research from Parents and Carers in Performing Arts (PiPA) also shows that parents and carers feel isolated, especially those already facing multiple barriers to working in music. Early intervention and peer support are critical.
Empowering participants to navigate caregiving challenges whilst continuing their careers
PiPA and Come Play With Me (CPWM) are launching new peer support networks to build community, promote wellbeing, and boost resilience. Starting with in-person meet ups, the project will expand to an online platform to keep the conversation and support going.
Funded by the National Lottery, this pilot aims to reduce isolation and help parents and carers from under-represented groups - including the Global Majority, LGBTQ+ people, disabled and neurodiverse individuals, and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds - stay and thrive in the music industry.
The ultimate goal is to empower participants to navigate caregiving challenges whilst continuing their careers; if you are from any marginalised background, then this is for you.
North of England sessions
By participating in this trial, you'll gain access to a supportive community, share resources, and connect with others who understand your challenges. You'll also benefit from useful tools, and have a voice in shaping a sustainable support system for the sector.
PiPA and CPWM will take the learning (anonymously) from these sessions, and use it to inform future development of the peer support networks.
As this is a pilot and places are limited (12 places per location), the project will prioritise applicants who identify as being from one or more of the above communities. If more than 12 applicants meet the eligibility criteria, participants will be selected at random.
If you aren’t selected this time, the project hopes to run more sessions in future.
- Leeds: Wednesday 11 June 2025, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm at City Varieties Music Hall. Deadline for applications is 10:00 pm on Monday 26 May, with confirmation of place by 28 May.
- Newcastle: Date TBC – sign up to register interest
- Liverpool: Date TBC – sign up to register interest
Access and further details
PiPA are able to offer £50 in exchange for attendees’ participation in the pilot – unfortunately they cannot pay travel expenses for the in-person sessions.
Children and/or those you care for are welcome in the space. However, as the pilot does not provide childcare or care services, you will need to remain responsible for them throughout.
The Leeds session will take place in the circle bar of the City Varieties Music Hall. There is an accessible toilet, and lifts to all floors. Take a 360 tour of the venue.
Find out more about apply for a space online.