The Atkinson is delighted to have received Accreditation status. Accreditation is the benchmark for well-run Museums and Galleries, administered by Arts Council England on behalf of the UK Accreditation Scheme.
In the museum, Between Land & Sea tells the story of the people and industries that have shaped the Sefton coast across history, while Discover Ancient Egypt offers an immersive journey into Ancient Egyptian life through the remarkable artefact collection of Anne Goodison, presented in interactive displays.
Alongside these museum experiences, the art galleries showcase a rich and varied programme, drawing from a vast collection of around 3,500 artworks spanning painting, sculpture, digital art, photography. Together, these spaces provide visitors with a dynamic blend of local heritage, world history, and visual art that appeals to audiences of all ages.
The Accreditation means that The Atkinson is properly managed and governed to the nationally agreed industry standard and shows the museum takes proper care of its collections, sharing them with visitors and keeping them safe for future generations.
It also opens exciting funding opportunities, allows museums to host touring exhibitions and gives access to professional advice and support. It gives confidence to donors and sponsors who may wish to support the museum in preserving heritage and inspiring future generations.
Accreditation covers museums of all types and sizes – from the smallest volunteer-run museums to national museums – and more than 1,700 museums are currently taking part in the scheme across the UK.
More information about the Accreditation scheme can be found here.
David Tetlow, Principal Manager of Museum & Galleries at The Atkinson, said:
“We’re thrilled to have gained Accreditation status. It is a powerful recognition of the care, professionalism, and passion that our team brings to managing The Atkinson and safeguarding our collections. Our mission is to ensure our heritage is preserved and shared with our community today and for generations to come.”
Emmie Kell, Director Museums and Cultural Property at Arts Council England said: “We’re delighted that The Atkinson has been successful in gaining their Accreditation status. This means that their Collections will be looked after and maintained offering inspiration, enjoyment and learning for the local community and visitors to enjoy now and in the future.”
About Arts Council England
Arts Council England is the national development agency for creativity and culture. They have set out their strategic vision in Let’s Create that by 2030 they want England to be a country in which the creativity of each of us is valued and given the chance to flourish and where everyone of us has access to a remarkable range of high-quality cultural experiences. From 2023 to 2026 they will invest over £467 million of public money from Government and an estimated £250 million from The National Lottery each year to help support the sector and to deliver this vision.