Music Minds Matter receives industry support through PPL Giving

• Funding will go directly to supporting the mental health of musicians across the UK as the charity continues its work to prevent mental health crises and protect the wellbeing of everyone working in music
• PPL Giving seeks to support organisations that drive positive change across the music industry

Music Minds Matter, the charity providing mental health support for everyone working in music in the UK, is the latest recipient of PPL Giving funding. PPL has supported Music Minds Matter since it launched as a single-focus charity three years ago, as well as contributing to The Musicians’ Union work in artist welfare previously. The support from PPL Giving will assist the charity in delivering its critical mental health support in a time of high demand. In 2023, Music Minds Matter was able to help over 3,300 musicians and individuals working in the music industry but there are many more still in need of support. With the NHS under strain, patients facing long waiting lists and private routes often presenting financial barriers, accessible mental health provision in music continues to be needed at scale. 

Whilst working in music is an exhilarating and rewarding job, the pace, pressure and unsociable hours can have a detrimental impact on mental health and wellbeing. Research has shown that those working in music may be up to three times more likely to experience depression compared to the general public. With the cost of living and wider economic impact taking its toll on the cultural sector, it is even more challenging to sustain a career in music without a serious knock-on effect to the mental health of the people who create our special musical moments.

Providing a breadth of services, Music Minds Matter offers direct support, reassurance or simply a listening ear when it is needed for everyone working in music in the UK. Whether it’s a trained counsellor to speak to in the middle of the night through its 24/7 helpline, a peer to talk through Music Minds Matter support groups in partnership with Tonic Rider, or learning future coping strategies through the charity’s ​‘Self Care Sessions’ series.

To mark its 90^th anniversary, PPL formally launched the £1 million annual purpose-driven programme earlier this year to support organisations that drive positive change across the music industry, through musical education, talent development, later career support and artist wellbeing. Since its launch 30 organisations have already benefitted from PPL Giving.

Sarah Woods, Chief Executive at Music Minds Matter and Help Musicians, said: ​“PPL has been pivotal to the growth of Music Minds Matter in recent years, and we’re incredibly grateful to now be recipients of PPL Giving, a fund that has already made a huge difference to the UK music industry. The need for Music Minds Matter across the entire musical ecosystem is sadly ever-growing and our work continues at scale. That work is not only in supporting those who are struggling but also working proactively to help prevent issues before they arise. The UK music Industry is estimated to employ around 210,000 people and the financial support of PPL Giving is a real boost in helping us reach even more who need us.”

Kate Reilly, Chief Membership and People Officer at PPL said: ​“Mental health struggles are very real for people who work across all facets of the industry. We’re proud to continue our long-term collaboration with Music Minds Matter so they can deliver tailored mental health and wellbeing programmes and wellbeing support for all those who need it, when they need it.”