Portsmouth museums receive national recognition
Six Portsmouth museums have been awarded national accreditation status by Arts Council England. Charles Dickens’ Birthplace, Cumberland House, D-Day Museum, Eastney Beam Engine House, Portsmouth Museum and Southsea Castle have all achieved the coveted status. The accreditation scheme sets nationally agreed standards for all museums in the UK. It allows participating museums to demonstrate their commitment to managing collections effectively for the enjoyment and benefit of audiences. Applicants are assessed against a set criteria which covers a range of museum activities. The six Portsmouth City Council operated sites have had to demonstrate they meet requirements relating to governance and management, services and facilities and care and management of collections. Visitors to the museums will benefit from the work done as it includes the creation of a customer charter which features 10 points to ensure all guests have the best possible experience. It is also hoped the announcement will help boost future projects to the museum as accreditation status can strengthen applications for public funding and it also provides a level of reassurance to anyone donating items, collections or funds. Cllr Linda Symes, the council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure & Sport, said: “It is fantastic news that all six of our museums have secured this impressive achievement. It is testament to the hard work our staff have put in and the superb facilities we have on offer. This national recognition shows the level our museums are performing at and I hope we can continue to build on this success.” There are currently more than 1,700 Accredited Museums in the scheme, from very small volunteer-run museums to large national institutions. Annette French, museums accreditation manager, Arts Council England, said: “Being awarded accreditation is an impressive achievement. It recognises the high standard and service that Portsmouth museums provide and acknowledges the hard work of the volunteers and staff.”
