Wales Moves to Alert Level Four

Over the weekend Welsh Government announced that alert level 4 restrictions would apply across Wales from midnight on 19 December, earlier than had previously been planned.

These measures will be reviewed at least every three weeks and information on them, and other alert levels which may apply in the future, is on the Welsh Government website, which we strongly recommend members read.

The Welsh Government has also now issued new advice to those who were previously ‘shielding’ to advise them that they should no longer attend work or school outside the home. Anyone that this advice applies to should read the Written Statement and check the Welsh Government website for further advice over the next few weeks.

This information was accurate to the best of our knowledge when it was published, but the situation and regulations/guidance are changing quickly in Wales, so please check the Welsh Government website for new information while the MU offices are closed over Christmas.

How alert level 4 in Wales might affect musicians

Teaching

• Private teaching should move online if possible and should only take place in person if it is ‘reasonably necessary’ and there is no ‘reasonably practical alternative’. If you think this may be the case we recommend reading the Welsh Government’s specific guidance on visiting people in private homes at alert level 4, as well as their advice on taking reasonable measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus and working in other people’s homes.
• At the moment we think face-to-face teaching will be able to resume in schools after the Christmas holidays, but this could change. We will continue to seek clarity on this and members should check with their employer(s) and schools about the current circumstances in the new year, while being prepared to teach online if necessary.
• We would also recommend reading our advice on teaching during the Coronavirus outbreak, including our guidance on teaching online.

Other work

• Our understanding is that the use of rehearsal and recording studios can continue at alert level 4, provided it’s for the purpose of work (whether by professionals or part-time professionals).
• Venues can continue to be used for broadcasts (whether over internet, radio, or television) without an audience present and to rehearse for such a broadcast.
• Given the guidance on outdoor gatherings and meeting people from other households we would advise against busking and any other type of live performance with an audience while Wales is at alert level 4.
• We would also advise against any community or amateur group rehearsals, meetings, or performances taking place while Wales is at alert level 4, for the same reason.

The move to alert level 4 may have implications for your work, contracts (including employment contracts), and earnings. Our general guidance on Cancelled Contracts and Income Loss is likely to apply, but please get in touch once the MU offices reopen in January for more specific advice, including in relation to employment contracts, the various government support schemes, and potential redundancies.

At alert level 4 you can only leave home or remain away from home for limited reasons, which include for work where it isn’t reasonably practicable to work from home. If you are planning to travel to England or the other UK nations you should check the regulations and guidance for your destination, as there are restrictions on travel in some areas.

Take action now

Whilst so many musicians across the UK face increased restrictions, it’s more vital than ever that the Government invests in musicians.

We need to show them how much goes into what you do, add your voice to the call to Invest in Musicians by sharing your story now.