Where to access financial help for artists in times of crisis

Unexpected financial struggles can arise as an emerging artist in the industry, but there are many charities and organisations dedicated to helping musicians so you can continue creating your passion.

A career in the music industry can be incredibly rewarding but also comes with financial uncertainty. Whether it's unexpected expenses, support with lost or damaged equipment, a sudden loss of income, or even retirement, economic struggles can arise at any time.

At GigPig, artists are at the heart of everything we do, and we want to ensure that musicians know where to turn when they need financial support. Fortunately, many incredible organisations are dedicated to helping artists navigate tough times, ensuring they can continue pursuing their passion without financial hardship forcing them out of the industry.

We’ve compiled a list of organisations and charities that offer financial assistance to musicians in need. If you ever find yourself facing financial difficulties, these resources could provide the help and stability you need.

Musicians’ Union

Musicians' Union (MU) is the definitive trade union in the industry, advocating for over 35,000 artists, ensuring fair treatment and providing essential support to those in the industry. It’s also a great place for artists to turn to if they ever find themselves at a crossroads, whether to seek advice or guidance when navigating the industry to advocate for a fairer music industry.

If you need financial help, the MU offers access to a range of benefits, including:

• Personal accident cover
• Instrument insurance
• Individual grants for financial hardship
• Benevolent, parental, and funeral grants
• Support from partner organisations for additional financial needs

They additionally work with numerous partner organisations that can assist with many other financial hardships musicians may face. Memberships start at £23, or £1 for the first six months, and are a crucial resource for musicians to explore.

Help Musicians

For over 100 years, Help Musicians has supported artists across the UK, whatever stage of their career. They work on a case-by-case basis to provide financial aid for musicians facing hardship. You may be eligible for support if you're dealing with:

• Terminal illness
• Long-term sickness or disability
• Risk of homelessness
• Parental leave
• Retirement

This charity is dedicated to offering financial assistance, health support and career guidance to help musicians stay afloat during difficult times.

Royal Variety Charity

Founded in 1907, the Royal Variety Charity has a long history of assisting those within the entertainment industry. Having gained support across the industry, it’s now supported by the Royal Variety Performance, where the charity can provide support to thousands of people each year, including:

• Grants for financial hardship
• Support for illness or accident-related difficulties
• Residential and nursing care for retired artists in Twickenham

Whether you work on or off stage, if you're struggling financially due to unforeseen circumstances, this charity may be able to help.

Royal Society of Musicians

The Royal Society of Musicians (RSM) is the UK’s oldest musicians’ charity, dedicated to supporting those in the music industry who cannot work due to physical or mental health challenges.

Providing support to musicians is their core mission, and they are working harder than ever to find new ways to raise funds to meet the needs of music professionals. Last year alone, they offered support to 520 beneficiaries, with the average grant amount received per applicant being £1,106.

They offer financial grants to current and former musicians for various needs, including:

• Living expenses
• Medical costs
• Other urgent financial support

The RSM is committed to finding new ways to raise funds and provide for musicians in need for generations to come.

PRS Members’ Fund

The PRS Members' Fund exists to provide a safety net for musicians facing financial instability. They understand that no matter how successful you may become in the industry, financial insecurities are always a possibility due to the precarious nature of the job.

PRS members can access a wide range of resources that are readily available when a crisis hits, including:

• Financial aid
• Housing support
• Mental and physical health resources

As they put it “We’re here to help you get back on track, find your voice, and empower you to move forward with your career. We want to hear from you… It’s your song, your music, your fund.”

At GigPig, we understand that a crisis can strike at any time, often leaving artists feeling unprepared and alone. But you’re not alone. The organisations listed above are dedicated to ensuring musicians receive the financial and emotional support they need.  If you ever find yourself struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out - help is available, and your career doesn’t have to suffer because of financial hardship.