skip to main content

Solidarity and the Cost of Living Crisis

The MU would like to express solidarity with other union workers who are on strike this week, including nurses, postal workers and railway staff.

Published: 16 December 2022 | 11:48 AM
Red post box stands in front of a brick wall in the bright sunshine.
As ever, we are behind every musician, wherever our members are based and whatever their circumstances. Photo credit: Shutterstock

With inflation still at over 10% and interest rates rising again this week, the squeeze on living standards has never been more desperate and we stand with all workers fighting to get a fair pay rise and a protection of their terms and conditions.

We continue to fight hard for our own members, through, for example, challenging ACE funding cuts, reclaiming unpaid monies and negotiating with employers and getting significant rate increases. We’ve also distributed over £1 million in royalties this year.

If the Government want to see growth, they must invest in working people

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl commented:

“At this very difficult time, with the public purse tightening and living costs rising, we stand with colleagues across the trade union movement to demand a better deal. If the Government want to see growth, they must invest in working people.

“The MU is working harder than ever to generate and recover money for its members; whether through chasing unpaid fees, negotiating pay rises or distributing royalties. We are conscious of our members’ financial stresses and we are here to offer advice and support on a wide range of issues.

“As ever, we are behind every musician, wherever our members are based and whatever their circumstances.”

Please visit our cost of living hub for more details and contact your regional office if you need any assistance.

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

A suitcase with an EU and UK flag sticker on, covered in red tape.

New Report Highlights £208 Million Cost of Brexit Touring Barriers

Research commissioned by the Government estimates that Brexit-related touring barriers cost the UK touring sector £208 million and nearly 2,500 jobs between 2022 and 2024, prompting renewed calls for practical solutions to make EU touring more viable.

Published: 11 September 2026

Read more about New Report Highlights £208 Million Cost of Brexit Touring Barriers
A rock musician performing with a microphone on an orange-lit stage with smoke in the air.

Arts Council England Launches New Music Creators Growth Fund

Experienced artists and music creators can apply for grants of £10,000 to £20,000 to support career development, touring and international opportunities. Applications open on 1 October 2026, with guidance webinars available to attend throughout September and October.

Published: 11 September 2026

Read more about Arts Council England Launches New Music Creators Growth Fund