THIS IS AN UPDATED STATEMENT (see original statement)

In the wake of recent revelations regarding inappropriate behaviour in many different settings, concerns have been raised in the music sector about incidents of discrimination including sexual harassment.

The ISM, as the UK’s professional body for musicians, is committed to working on a collaborative basis to improve the workplace for musicians and to secure change on a long term basis. As part of this approach, the ISM is seeking to understand the extent and nature of these issues which will help us formulate practical solutions to change the workplace for the better. Today we are launching a survey which asks musicians to offer their suggestions as to how we can improve the culture and conditions in which all musicians work, and to share their personal experiences with us on a completely anonymous basis.

Deborah Annetts, Chief Executive of the ISM said:

‘Over the last few weeks, many women have come forward to tell their stories of the inappropriate behaviour they have been subjected to. The music sector - where there is so much freelance work and people depend so much on personal contacts to get work - is exactly the kind of environment where discrimination can thrive.

It is important that we work together to make the change we all desire and we hope that with the launch of this survey we can create a better future for all musicians by identifying practical solutions.’

Musicians are invited to share their suggestions and experiences anonymously by visiting bit.ly/ISMmakeadifference

ISM members have access to confidential advice from experienced in-house employment lawyers, Lavina and Simone, by contacting the ISM legal team at [email protected] or by contacting our 24-hour advice line on 01275 376 038. The ISM also runs a counselling helpline on 0800 042 0136.