Musicians Benevolent Fund

Student Health Grants

The MBF student health scheme offers financial assistance with the treatment of performance-related health problems, both physical and psychological. A student suffering from any health issue affecting their ability to perform can apply to the MBF for a treatment grant, which can be used to pay for sessions with an appropriate therapist or practitioner.

Typically, a student will be awarded an initial grant of £250, with a further £250 being made available if the medical professional recommends further treatment. £500 is the maximum that any student can receive.

The eligibility guidelines for this scheme are as follows:

• Applicants should be enrolled in a full-time music-based course, specialising in performance, at undergraduate or postgraduate level.
• Applicants who are not British or Irish must have been resident in the UK or Ireland for at least three years prior to their application.
• The MBF can only help with treatment costs whilst you are a full-time student.
• The MBF cannot help with the costs of routine healthcare.

So, if you meet the above criteria and your performance is being adversely affected by a health problem, please download an application form below.

If you have any queries, please email studenthealth@mbf.org.uk

For more information about the British Association of Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM) click here.

If you are a music student in Ireland, please click on the form below:

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO APPLY, PLEASE CLICK ON THE NAME OF YOUR INSTITUTION:

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

I'm a singer. Can I get help?
Yes. If you need help with a problem affecting your voice you can apply for our grant.

I'm studying music full-time but not at a college on your list. Can I still apply?
No. At the moment, in Great Britain, the scheme is restricted to particular colleges and universities. We are, however, able to accept applications from students at any college in Northern Ireland or Eire.

I'm studying on a part-time music course, can I get help?
No. For the purposes of this pilot scheme help is only available to those studying on a full time course.

I'm suffering from stage-fright and would like to see a counsellor. Can your grant be used for this?
Yes. We know that stage-fright and anxiety can affect your performance and our grant can be used towards counselling fees.

I'm a cellist and I fell off my bike and broke my ankle. Can I get a grant for physiotherapy?
No. Our grant can only be used for treatment directly related to your ability to play your instrument.

I'm a flautist and I fell off my bike and broke my thumb. Can I get a grant for physiotherapy?
Yes. Because your injury affects your playing you can apply for our grant.

I've used your grant of £500 but still need further treatment. Can I get more help?
No. Our grant is intended as a contribution towards treatment costs and £500 is the maximum we can give you.

I've just left college. Can I still get your grant?
No. Our grant is for full-time students. But if you are now working full-time as a musician you might be eligible for a grant from our main benevolent funds. For more information click here.

I am a singer and need to have my wisdom teeth removed/ need some fillings. Can you help?
No. The MBF is unable to help with routine dental work.

I‘ve been offered a post-graduate place but can’t afford to take it up. Can you help with this?
Yes. You should get in touch with our Education Department. For more information click here.

Please help us to make our website as user-friendly as possible. If there is any other information you would find helpful please let us know by emailing studenthealth@mbf.org.uk and we will do our best to include it in these guidelines and FAQs.