During several weeks before the Spring Budget, the Musicians’ Union did an intense campaign for Chancellor Rishi Sunak to include these five points to aid musicians:

1.   Extend SEISS (Self-employment Income Support Scheme) and furlough beyond April for sectors that cannot return to work.
2.   Adjust SEISS to ensure that all musicians are covered in future rounds of funding.
3.   Open up the second round of the Cultural Recovery Fund (CRF) to freelancers in England – in line with Scotland and Wales.
4.   Introduce an insurance scheme for summer festivals and other events.
5.   A subsidy for live events to happen with reduced capacity under social distancing.

There was some good news in the Budget speech, as SEISS and furlough were extended to September and more money also went into the Cultural Recovery Fund. However, the situation for musicians is still extremely difficult. The MU estimates over 70% of musicians are unsure about their future in the industry. The governments needs to do more!

Currently, the MU is advocating for the points not included in the Budget, and we all can help. Express yourself and let the public know about what is happening! Take as example these two brilliant songs dedicated to Mr. Sunak:

Find more ideas, the newest information and more on the Musicians’ Union website.