Supporting collections and cultural property
We passionately believe that our nation’s collections, held in organisations of many types and sizes across the country, are an unmatched cultural asset. It is essential that they are developed and cared for, celebrated and protected, so they can be enjoyed by as many people as possible. This is both a privilege and a challenge, which is why we provide standards, funding and advocacy and deliver schemes to help in meeting these responsibilities.
Export licensing
Export licensing
Where possible, we work to keep items of particular cultural significance in the UK. This includes reviewing items due for export and offering tax incentives for individuals and organisations that want to purchase cultural goods.
Accreditation scheme
Accreditation scheme
We want all museums to be sustainable, focused and trusted organisations, which offer their visitors a great experience. The Accreditation Scheme sets out nationally-agreed standards, which inspire the confidence of the public and funding and governing bodies.
Museum Development programme
Museum Development programme
We fund a programme of Museum Development which focuses on building the resilience and ambition of non-National museums across England.
Tax incentives for acquisition
Tax incentives for acquisition
We want as many people as possible to be able to enjoy important cultural items and collections. These schemes help public collections acquire important items for public enjoyment.
Museums and Collections at Risk
Museums and Collections at Risk
We have updated our joint statement with 16 museum funders and sector bodies about heritage, museums and collections at risk, outlining our co-ordinated approach to helping organisations at real risk of long-term closure or insolvency.
Restitution and Repatriation
Restitution and Repatriation
A Practical Guide for Museums in England
The guidance provides a practical framework for museums to consider and manage potential restitution and repatriation cases.
More about collections
SSNs support the development, use and wider understanding of collections by sharing knowledge, expertise, and resources with people working with collections.
GIS exists for the UK public benefit. The UK Scheme offers an alternative to the cost of commercial insurance. Its purpose is to facilitate, for the benefit of the public within the UK, the provision of access to cultural objects on loan to UK institutions.
Identifying and celebrating outstanding collections, which deepen our understanding of the world and what it means to be human.
Accredited museums act within an agreed legal and ethical framework and have approved policies for developing their collections.
There are currently 163 Designated collections held in organisations across the whole of England.
Securing a bright future for museums in England
11 September 2018Memorandum of Understanding between Arts Council England and Heritage Lottery Fund establishes stronger partnership to support Museums
Find out more and apply for The Collections Purchase Fund
Protects objects on loan from overseas from seizure while on temporary public display in the UK
Newsletter
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We publish a quarterly e-newsletter featuring relevant information on our work with collections and cultural property; subscribe today to get further information, guidance and case studies on the support and funds available to organisations with collections — including museums, galleries and archives.
Apply for funding
Apply for funding
Several of our funding programmes focus on collections and their development
Find out which funds are currently open for applications and apply below.