Frequently Asked Questions
Is it free to call Music Minds Matter?
Yes, it is free to call the telephone number 0808 802 8008 (inside the UK)
When is the service open?
The Music Minds Matter telephone number can be accessed day and night 365 days a year.
What do people contact Music Minds Matter about?
People get in touch with Music Minds Matter for all sorts of reasons, not just their work in music.
Some of the most common things people want to discuss are difficulties with relationships, stress and bereavement, but many people just want someone to talk to about how they’re feeling at that moment.
Who will I be speaking to?
The person who answers your call (the call handler) will be a BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) accredited counsellor who will offer you in the moment advice and support and appreciates the challenges of working in the music industry.
Who can use Music Minds Matter?
Music Minds Matter is available for anyone who works in the music industry. If you’re a PRS for Music member you can access free counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy, as well as emotional support, or just a listening ear through our unique partnership with PRS Members Fund. Just quote your CAE number when you call.
What can I expect when I call Music Minds Matter?
You can expect to receive emotional support, information, guidance and signposting to additional services that may be of help.
You may also be able to access additional support, such as counselling and advice on benefits, debt and legal issues.
What type of counselling can I receive?
If the call handler you speak to thinks that you would benefit from therapeutic support , they will take you through a brief assessment, which should help them to find the right counsellor so support your needs.
Support comes in the form of brief intervention focussed counselling that will be arranged through the call handler.
Before you can referred for counselling, you will be assessed just to see how things are for you and to discuss which type of counselling would suit you best.
To be eligible for free online CBT or telephone counselling you must (1) earn at least 50% of your income from working in the music industry, (2) have less than £16,000 in savings, and (3) be based in the UK. For face-to-face counselling, we’ll ask you to complete one of Help Musicians’ application forms.
Counselling usually starts within a week or so of the assessment.
When I get in touch with Music Minds Matter, is what I discuss kept confidential?
Yes. We keep a record of the enquiries we receive on a database, which can only be seen by staff who are involved in providing the Music Minds Matter service.
There’s no need to give us your name if you don’t want to, or any information you don’t feel comfortable sharing. However, we do need to let you know that there are situations where we may not be able to keep the information you give us confidential. This is where there might be a risk to your own health and safety, the health and safety of others or if you have been involved in a crime.
How often can I call to receive emotional support?
There is no cap or limit to how many times you can get in touch with Music Minds Matter.
I’m the partner, friend or relative of someone working in music and I’d like to talk to someone. Can I call?
Of course, you can get in touch and receive emotional support and signposting through Music Minds Matter.
Can I call from overseas? What are the costs?
Although the 0808 number is free to call in the UK, there may be costs associated with calling abroad. It’s best to check with your provider.
Have another question? Get in touch