skip to main content

The TUC Are Demanding Pay Rises for Keyworkers

The TUC are campaigning for a pay rise for key workers, and will be kicking off a planning and strategy call on Tuesday 9 February at 6:00 pm.

Published: 04 February 2021 | 3:43 PM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:32 PM
Photograph of a little kid painting a rainbow onto a big glass window.
When hospitals were at breaking point - they were there. When children needed support and care – they were there. Photo credit: Shutterstock

During the pandemic key workers never stopped. When the shelves needed stocking – they were there. When hospitals were at breaking point - they were there. When children needed support and care – they were there.

They risk their lives every day. Yet they get paid 8% less than the average. This isn’t okay. Nurses, teachers, care workers, cleaners and all key workers deserve a pay rise. And the TUC has a plan to make it happen.

Their plan will only work if you get involved. Join the call and step up to take action for key workers. They cared for us. Now it’s our turn to care for them.

Find out more about how you can get involved, including signing up to their strategy call on Tuesday 9 February at 6:00 pm, on the TUC’s website.

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

Charlene, Sinead and three members who attended the meeting.

MU Belfast Meeting Highlights Impact of City Parking Costs on Musicians

MU members met this week for an open discussion on working life in Belfast, highlighting how rising parking costs, limited access to venues and late-night working conditions are placing increasing pressure on musicians and undermining its UNESCO City of Music status.

Published: 23 April 2026

Read more about MU Belfast Meeting Highlights Impact of City Parking Costs on Musicians
Shot of a large crowd at a small, grassroots music concert. The band on stage are in silhouette against purple, blue and orange lights.

UK Artist Touring Fund Announces First Phase Artists

The UK Artist Touring Fund (UKAT), supported by the MU and funded by the LIVE Trust, has awarded its first wave of grants to 26 artists across 211 gigs, helping deliver fair pay and access in the grassroots live sector.

Published: 23 April 2026

Read more about UK Artist Touring Fund Announces First Phase Artists
Manchester skyline at night.

Greater Manchester Launches Music Plan Survey as MU Backs Creative Exchange

Calling all Manchester-based musicians: have your say on the future of the region’s music sector by completing GMCA’s new Music Plan survey. You can also attend a free creative industries event in the city-centre on 30 April for networking, discussion and live music.

Published: 20 April 2026

Read more about Greater Manchester Launches Music Plan Survey as MU Backs Creative Exchange