We are here to listen, so don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need help or have any questions about our work – whether on your own behalf or for a friend. Call our helpline on 0207 239 9101 or email help@helpmusicians.org.uk
For the moment, it’s not possible to apply directly online. We like to talk to you before you go to the trouble of making an application, so that you can give us the right information and not waste time form-filling if we can’t help. In those cases where we’re not able to help, we’ll always try to point you to someone who can.
What happens next
If we think we may be able to help, we will ask you to fill out a simple form, giving us details of you, your career, your finances and the problem you are facing. We will also ask you to provide a musical referee – someone who can vouch for your career and status as a professional musician. We will also ask for some evidence of your finances – bank statements, for example.
Once we have all the paperwork, we aim to give you a decision within 10 working days of receiving the application. In a real emergency we can respond much quicker.
If we are offering financial help, we will aim to visit you in your home within eight weeks of agreeing to help. We like to visit so we can understand your needs better, get to know each other, and confirm that your circumstances are as stated in your application.
Even if we can’t offer financial help, we will aim to offer constructive advice at all stages. In some cases we may insist that, for example, you claim all the state benefits to which you are entitled or that you seek help with managing debt, as a condition of financial help.
We treat every case with great care and confidentiality and are guided by a deep respect for musicians as individuals. Whatever your situation, whatever kind of musician you are, we will help if we can.
