With a visible online presence part of many musicians’ careers, it is important to take steps to protect yourself online. Photo: © Guille Faingold | Stocksy United
You may have seen news coverage of recent changes at Twitter that may leave users more exposed to harm. These include the firing of over half of Twitter’s staff including the head of safety and integrity, and the human rights team. It also includes the reappearance of individuals and groups previously banned on the platform.
With a visible online presence part of many musicians’ careers, it is important to take basic steps to protect yourself online.
If you experience online harassment and abuse:
Sources of support
Help Musicians runs a free, 24/7, confidential helpline for anyone who experiences bullying and harassment in the industry.
There are also many organisations providing specialist mental health and wellbeing support for musicians and marginalised communities. Take a look at our full list of organisations that may be particularly useful.
If you experience sexual harassment online, you can also report this to the MU’s Safe Space service.
Learn more about discrimination and harassment, and find a list of useful resources to protect yourself and support others online and in the workplace, in the union’s Discrimination and Harassment advice hub.
Remember your commitment as an MU member
Every MU member signs up to the MU’s Rules when they join. That includes a commitment “to oppose actively all forms of harassment, prejudice and unfair discrimination whether on the grounds of sex, race, ethnic or national origin, religion, colour, class, caring responsibilities, marital status, sexuality, disability, age, or other status or personal characteristic” in the MU’s objects (goals / purpose).
Read the rules