A new national report is highlighting the growing challenges faced by caregivers working in Canada’s music industry while calling for more flexible and supportive workplace policies across the sector.
The report, titled Sound of Support: Exploring the Music Community’s Caregiver Needs, was released by Women in Music Canada and Music Publishers Canada.
Researchers surveyed more than 200 music professionals across Canada, including artists, publishers, managers and administrators, to examine how caregiving responsibilities are affecting careers in the industry.
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Report highlights caregiving pressures
According to the report, 73 per cent of respondents said they are caring for children, while 39 per cent provide care for aging parents or other family members.
More than one-quarter of respondents reported balancing both child care and elder care responsibilities at the same time.
“Caregiving touches everyone in this industry and the conversations are finally moving from the sidelines to centre stage,” said Robyn Stewart in a release.
“When we openly acknowledge challenges and barriers, we can create real change.”
The report also found many industry workers remain unaware of existing support programs and resources available to caregivers. Researchers said 78 per cent of respondents did not know about programs currently available to music professionals.
Industry groups call for workplace changes
The report outlines recommendations aimed at making the music industry more inclusive for caregivers, including improved communication about support programs, expanded peer networks and more flexible workplace policies.
Margaret McGuffin said the findings demonstrate the need for long-term changes across the sector.
“This report is a call to action and we’re encouraged by the willingness we see across the industry to adopt new practices, share what works and build a music ecosystem in Canada where caregivers can thrive,” McGuffin said.
The report also highlighted work being done through the Level UP! Initiative, a national program supporting arts organizations as they develop care-focused workplace policies and supports.
Organizations say issue extends beyond music industry
Women in Music Canada and Music Publishers Canada said they hope the report encourages broader conversations around caregiving responsibilities across Canadian workplaces.
The organizations say caregiving pressures continue to grow as Canada’s population ages and more workers balance professional responsibilities with caring for family members.
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