Help Musicians UK launches 24/7 mental health support line for the music industry

The new service comes after the charity experienced a 22% increase in requests for help in 2016

Music charity Help Musicians UK (HMUK) has launched a 24/7 mental health service Music Minds Matter for anyone working in the music industry.

The Music Minds Matter service offers advice and professional therapeutic services, including counselling and CBT. The services also provides access to the charity’s grant funding, with individuals able to access advice on legal issues, debt and benefits.

Nadine Shah

During 2016, HMUK’s health and welfare team experienced a 22% increase in requests for help from musicians across the UK, and in total last year, the charity spent £1.9 million helping these individuals.

In response to this, HMUK commissioned the University of Westminster and MusicTank to undertake the world’s largest academic study into mental health and the music industry. The findings of the report Can Music Make You Sick?, led to HMUK’s pledge to launch the Music Minds Matter service by December this year, as well as initiate the music industry’s first Mental Health Taskforce in collaboration with music industry partners, organisations and stakeholders.

Artist Nadine Shah said: “I would like to give my passionate, wholehearted support to Help Musicians UK and the new Music Minds Matter mental health service. The music industry is in such need of a service like this. It’s about time we had a service that is always there for people, one that really caters to the myriad of mental health challenges and complexities that musicians and people in the music industry face. As someone that has experienced struggles of my own, I know how important it is to know that I could access help and support when I need it.”

Richard Robinson, CEO, HMUK added: “Help Musicians UK is uniquely positioned as a charity to coordinate, lead and support those working in music with mental health challenges. With 96 years of experience, we understand the complexity of being a musician and recognise the need for support that reflects the nature of the business, while providing a personalised service tailored to each person we help.

“It is also important to underline that early intervention is key in this service. This is not just for individuals in crisis, it is so much more and provides comprehensive support on a range of issues. In time we will look to add additional regional capabilities and services, as well as global partnerships, to really make a difference to those that need it most and future proof our music industry to be as healthy and successful as it can be.”

Those needing help and emotional support can call 0808 802 8008 free of charge, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Advice can also be accessed by emailing MMM@helpmusicians.org.uk (please note a 48-hour turnaround)