skip to main content

PRS for Music Launches Membership Emergency Relief Fund

The new fund, which will open for applications at 9:00 am on Thursday 26 March, offers money to support songwriters and composers during unprecedented times of hardship.

Published: 25 March 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 06 July 2021 | 5:08 PM
piggy bank
PRS Emergency Relief Fund to support its members during the Coronavirus pandemic. Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

PRS for Music today announced an immediate PRS Emergency Relief Fund to support its members during the Coronavirus pandemic. In partnership with the PRS Members’ Fund and PRS Foundation, the money will be available to PRS members around the world who are facing significant financial pressure as we battle the virus.

The new fund is open to all PRS members around the world who have earnt over £500 in the last two years. Grants will be awarded based on assessment of individual need and applicants will receive support up to a value of £1000.

Establishing this new PRS Fund is part of a wider plan to support members during the coming weeks, with further measures being explored.

Grant applications will be live from 9:00 am on Thursday 26 March.

PRS members wishing to apply for an Emergency Relief Fund grant can apply and find more details on the PRS For Music website.

The MU Coronavirus Hardship Fund

In response to the widespread cancellation of work that has hit our profession as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we have opened a hardship fund that members with genuine and pressing hardship can apply to.

Find out more about how it works, eligibility and how to apply.

Are you able to provide immediate support for musicians in real financial hardship? Join our crowdfunding effort.

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

Nick performing onstage in front of a Genesis Connected banner.

Tribute to Nick Smith

A highly successful bass player, friend, and teacher, Nick (doctor_bass) was a long term member of the MU. This tribute has been provided by his sisters, Kathryn and Alison.

Published: 21 February 2025

Read more about Tribute to Nick Smith
Out of focus interior of a school music classroom, with students practicing musical instruments and an acoustic guitar in the foreground.

Let’s Demand More for Music Hubs

With a new report suggesting that music hubs are facing a £161.4 million black hole, MU National Organiser Chris Walters looks at how we got here and invites members to take action.

Published: 20 February 2025

Read more about Let’s Demand More for Music Hubs
A large vibrant banner saying “It’s our time, Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture”, outside of the Science and Media Museum building.

MU Signs MOU with Bradford 2025 City of Culture

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is a framework which ensures that creative workers engaged in Bradford’s upcoming programme of events, as newly appointed City of Culture for 2025, receive fair pay and working conditions.

Published: 20 February 2025

Read more about MU Signs MOU with Bradford 2025 City of Culture