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BBC’s Withdrawal From Stonewall Raises Concerns

The MU has written to the BBC to raise concerns about its recent withdrawal from Stonewall’s Diversity Champions scheme.

Published: 23 November 2021 | 10:49 AM
The BBC HQ, at Portland Place, London. The photo is taken in the sunshine, and people are walking into and out of the building.
The letter also asks for assurances that the BBC’s commitment to supporting LGBT+ employees and providing safe and inclusive workplaces has not changed. Photo credit: Shutterstock

As one of the biggest employers of musicians in the UK, the letter highlights how vital it is that the MU are confident that our LGBT+ members are working in safe and inclusive workplaces and have support for the issues that some LGBT+ people may face at work.

The letter also asks for assurances that the BBC’s commitment to supporting LGBT+ employees and providing safe and inclusive workplaces has not changed and asks for details on how the BBC plans to support LGBT+ employees moving forward.

Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, John Shortell says:

“The Diversity Champions Programme exists to support employers in making their organisations more inclusive and creating a culture where LGBT+ employees can thrive.

“As a Trade Union we would support and encourage employers to participate in any scheme that exists with these aims. Ultimately we are concerned that it’s LGBT+ employees who will suffer.”

We are behind every musician

As a trade union we are here to represent, support and provide advice to our members. If you are an MU member experiencing any form of discrimination, you should contact your Regional Office.

Find out more about what we do for LGBT+ musicians .

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  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
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Tribute to Gerry Collins aka Gerald Isaacson ATCL LTCL

Gerry was a MU member for 45 years, and a gifted musician and educator. He passed away on 1 January 2023 after a long, rich and varied career. This tribute has been provided by his wife Diana and daughter Natasha.

Published: 16 May 2024

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MU Responds to CMS Report on Grassroots Music Venues

We welcome the recommendations made to Government in the report by the Culture, Media and Sport Committee (CMS), and are hopeful that we can use this opportunity to start to repair the grassroots live scene for all involved.

Published: 14 May 2024

Read more about MU Responds to CMS Report on Grassroots Music Venues
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Catch up with musician Balraj Samrai, Labour MP John McDonnell and others on why unions should support a universal basic income (UBI), plus find out how you can be part of the movement too.

Published: 13 May 2024

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