The Whitaker awarded ‘High Standard’ status from Arts Council

Following a recent review of the Accredited status of The Whitaker Museum, considered by a panel appointed by Arts Council England, ‘Full Accreditation’ status has been awarded to The Whitaker for the next 3 years.

In their report, issued last week, the panel congratulated The Whitaker Group, who stepped in to manage the site in 2013, on their hard-work and dedication to achieve this success, noting ‘that it’s such a positive turnaround for the museum’.

Carl Bell, The Whitaker Managing Director says:

“This award signifies the highest standards of Museum Curation as well as the Management and Maintenance of our treasured collection. This has been a lot of hard work led by fellow director, Jackie Williams and supported by a brilliant team of in house Volunteers. There was added pleasure in that a very complimentary and supportive letter was attached. It is really satisfying that our ‘Not for Profit’ Community Interest Company has again achieved this National standard, well done everyone involved”

The Arts Council England is a government-funded body dedicated to promoting the performing, visual and literary arts in England. Since 1994, Arts Council England has been responsible for distributing lottery funding. This investment has helped to transform the building stock of arts organisations and to create lots of additional high quality arts activity.

Arts Council England say, “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. It enables museums to assess their current performance, as well as supporting them to plan and develop their services”

The newly awarded accolade sees the Whitaker sit alongside, The National Gallery, Tate, Museum of Science & Industry & The Whitworth, plus many more, who have also been awarded ‘Full Accreditation’ status.