LIVE calls on Government to tackle touts
As the Government’s consultation on tackling ticket touts closes today, LIVE has called for swift action to remove this increasingly problematic blight on UK live music and the fan experience. As we noted in the DCMS press release announcing the consultation,
“LIVE welcomes this positive step to put fans back at the heart of live music by tackling ticket touting. We have been a long-term and vociferous advocate for regulation of the secondary market, supporting the great work of the FanFair Alliance, and are pleased to see government delivering on its manifesto commitment in this area.
We are delighted that measures which permit responsible and fair fan-to-fan resale, while eliminating third-party profiteering, will be brought forward. We look forward to continuing to work with government to ensure fans can enjoy our world-class live music sector.”
Moves to tackle touts through tougher enforcement underpinned by a cap will be popular with industry and public alike. In in research carried out for LIVE by Opinium in March 2025, just 12% of the public felt there should not be a cap on the resale price of tickets. There is unanimity across our sector that Government action to tackle touts is the right thing to do, will reduce distress caused to fans and open up new economic activity.
80 participants attend impactful LIVE Talks session on Menopause in Live Music
This week's LIVE Talk on Menopause in Live Music, in partnership with The Musicians' Union, was a powerful and timely conversation that brought much-needed attention to an often overlooked issue within our industry. Hosted as part of LIVE’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity and wellbeing, the session created a safe and supportive space for open dialogue, learning, and shared experiences.
Led by expert facilitators, Henpicked, and featuring contributions from expert panellists working across different areas of live music, the workshop covered key topics including recognising symptoms, navigating menopause in the workplace, supporting colleagues, and implementing practical changes across organisations. Attendees were encouraged to reflect on the unique challenges faced by those experiencing menopause in a fast-paced, high-pressure industry like ours—particularly where touring, late nights, and lack of support structures can compound physical and emotional symptoms.
Importantly, the workshop also highlighted the role that employers, colleagues, and industry bodies can play in breaking the stigma, offering flexibility, and promoting better understanding. From HR policies to venue provisions and mental health support, the session sparked a number of tangible ideas and next steps.
Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciation for the honesty and vulnerability shared, as well as the practical takeaways they could bring back to their teams. The workshop underscored the importance of listening to and supporting women at every stage of their career, and the value of building a more compassionate and inclusive live music sector.
LIVE partners with Government to slash red tape
LIVE has been invited to join with Government and other business leaders to slash red tape and boost the competitiveness of British businesses. A key focus of this work being to rapidly explore ways of cutting red tape for leisure and hospitality businesses across the UK with a view to relaxing licensing laws and strengthening competitiveness with businesses overseas. This is an exciting opportunity to deliver new trading opportunities and reduced costs of doing business for music venues, events and festivals.
LIVE CEO, Jon Collins said, “LIVE is delighted to be working with Government on ways to review the licensing system in order to unlock potential for venues, events and festivals in towns and cities across the UK. Licensing works well in many areas but there are opportunities for it to deliver more and more consistently. Empowering and celebrating our rich musical talent within a balanced, enabling licensing regime"
Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 receives Royal Assent
Martyn’s Law and industry requirements to meet a protect duty took a step closer this week as the enabling legislation received Royal Assent. While that means the bill is now an act and has completed Parliamentary consideration, there will now be an implementation phase of at least 24 months. This will include establishing the regulator function within the SIA, as well as ensuring there is time for businesses, premises and events to prepare for the legislation coming into force.
The Home Office has made clear that Government recognises that education, guidance and communications are key to the success of this legislation – and it will be equally critical to ensuring successful implementation of the Act. Both the Home Office and the SIA are committed to continuing to work with partners to ensure duty holders understand what is required under this legislation. This will include publication of two sets of statutory guidance. The first, to be published by the Home Office will assist those responsible to understand how they can meet the requirements of the legislation. The second, published by the SIA, will provide operational guidance as to how the regulator will discharge its duties.
Commenting for LIVE, Jon Collins said, "We are pleased the Bill has completed its passage through Parliament and look forward to working with the Home Office to develop the detailed operating plans and guidance needed to ensure clarity in the ways of working of the new inspectorate and how our venues, events and festivals can demonstrate compliance. As we have noted throughout this process, the licensing requirements under which those venues and festivals operate provide a certainty and regulatory connection that should support this work. We will continue to work closely with businesses within our industry to help them prepare for the rules to come into force over the next few years."
Where Music Meets Impact: Celebrating with Nordoff and Robbins in the North
The Northern Music Awards was an absolute highlight in the Awards calendar – a night that truly captured the energy, talent, and community spirit of the Northern music scene. From the inspiring performances to the well-deserved recognition of individuals and organisations across the sector, the evening was a powerful reminder of the depth and diversity of talent in the region.
A huge thank you to Nordoff and Robbins for putting on such an incredible event. The passion and purpose behind their work in music therapy shone through, adding a real sense of meaning to the celebrations. It was a brilliant evening, both in atmosphere and impact.
We were delighted that Gaby Cartwright and Jon Collins were able to attend and represent LIVE on the night—it was a fantastic opportunity to connect with friends, colleagues, and partners from across the industry, and to celebrate all that makes the Northern music community so special.
Celebrate Earth Day with Askonas Holt
As part of their plans to mark Earth Day, Jon Collins will be joining international arts company Askonas Holt for their Earth Day Summit at Somerset House on 22 April. This gathering will bring together orchestras, presenters, festivals, policymakers and sustainability experts to explore how we can evolve international touring into a more sustainable practice. Jon will be moderating two panel discussions on the day, looking to spark meaningful conversations and outline tangible steps towards a more sustainable future for touring.
The day will conclude with a special performance by Brazilian guitarist Plinio Fernandes followed by a drinks reception.
You can find more information and a registration form here.