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Three-Month Subscription Holiday Announced for Members in Financial Hardship

In response to the widespread cancellation of work that has hit our profession as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we have decided to offer a three-month subscription holiday to those who are in dire financial need.

Published: 30 April 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
Graphic of different people social distancing behind windows with instruments
We will be releasing full details on the scheme, and opening it up for applications next week. Image credit: Shutterstock

Members paying full subscription fees, or who are joint members of the MU, will be able to apply for a fixed three-month subscription holiday, with no obligation to re-pay the balance at a later date. Those who have already paid for their membership in full this year will be able to apply for a refund of the same value.

We encourage only members in genuine and pressing need to apply for this benefit. As with our Hardship Fund, this scheme will have a significant impact on MU resources, so please act responsibly and only apply if you are in real need.

We will be releasing full details on the scheme, and opening it up for applications next week. We’ll be letting you know when this happens through a second member-only email, on our website, and through our Twitter, Facebook and Instagram accounts.

We’ve released a video message from our General Secretary Horace Trubridge, explaining this decision and assuring members:

“Hang on in there. We will emerge from this nightmare, and be assured that your Union will be with you, by your side, ready to help in any way we can, every step of the way. Take care, stay safe, and keep the faith.”

Other sources of financial support

We’d also like to remind you that our MU Coronavirus Hardship Fund remains open, and is continuing to release individual grants of up to £200 to meet the immediate financial needs of members.

Our Crowdfunder for the fund recently reached £45K and is continuing to grow, and our auction to raise further funds is quickly building momentum.

For further information on financial assistance, including other hardship funds, sources for financial advice and details on the Government’s income support schemes – see our advice page on financial support.

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