The National Archives to establish new hub for community-led research in the cultural heritage sector

Staff working in galleries, libraries, archives and museums around the UK will soon have a new opportunity to engage with their communities and support research projects, thanks to a generous £1 million award by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) to The National Archives. This exciting project, known as Spaces, Places and Belonging, aims to promote community-led research and foster a deeper understanding of our shared history and heritage.

The AHRC, a government-funded organization that supports research and training in the arts and humanities, has recognized the importance of community involvement in preserving and promoting our cultural heritage. With this in mind, they have awarded The National Archives with a significant grant to fund community-led research projects across the UK. This initiative will not only benefit the participating communities, but also contribute to the wider understanding and appreciation of our diverse history and culture.

The Spaces, Places and Belonging project will provide an opportunity for staff working in galleries, libraries, archives and museums to collaborate with their local communities and support their research ideas. This will not only strengthen the relationship between these institutions and the public, but also encourage a more inclusive and diverse approach to research. By involving community members in the research process, the project aims to create a sense of ownership and belonging, as well as promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of our shared heritage.

The National Archives, as the UK government’s official archive, is committed to preserving and providing access to over 1,000 years of history. With this new funding, they will be able to expand their reach and engage with a wider range of people, including those who may not have had the opportunity to participate in research projects before. This will not only enrich the research process, but also ensure that a diverse range of voices and perspectives are represented in our understanding of the past.

The Spaces, Places and Belonging project will also provide training and support for community members who wish to participate in research projects. This will not only equip them with valuable skills, but also empower them to take an active role in preserving and promoting their local heritage. By involving the community in the research process, the project aims to create a sense of pride and ownership in our shared history, and foster a deeper connection between people and their heritage.

The AHRC’s generous funding will also enable The National Archives to develop new resources and tools to support community-led research. This will include digitization and preservation of important historical documents, as well as creating online platforms for sharing research findings and engaging with a wider audience. These resources will not only benefit the participating communities, but also contribute to the wider understanding and appreciation of our shared heritage.

The Spaces, Places and Belonging project is a testament to the importance of community involvement in preserving and promoting our cultural heritage. By providing funding and support for community-led research, the AHRC and The National Archives are empowering people to take an active role in preserving and promoting their local history and culture. This initiative will not only enrich our understanding of the past, but also foster a sense of belonging and connection to our shared heritage.

In conclusion, the generous £1 million award by the AHRC to The National Archives for the Spaces, Places and Belonging project is a significant step towards promoting community-led research and preserving our cultural heritage. This initiative will not only benefit the participating communities, but also contribute to a deeper understanding and appreciation of our diverse history and culture. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of this project and the valuable contributions of the communities involved.