On 10 September, HLF and Arts Council England (ACE) embarked on a revitalised partnership to improve support for museums in England, as a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by two organisations' chairs, Sir Peter Luff and Sir Nicholas Serota.

A more joined-up approach

The agreement follows recommendations set out in the Mendoza Review, which states that the challenges faced by museums require a more joined-up approach between DCMS, ACE and HLF to make best use of the resources available.

The memorandum will see HLF and ACE:

• Develop a better understanding of the support each organisation offers, which will inform both organisations' approach to museums
• Seek to make it easier for museums to work with the two organisations, providing greater clarity on who to approach for different needs, and, wherever possible, aligning our funding processes and programmes to ensure maximum impact
• Share national and local intelligence and data, to enable better informed decision-making, ensuring National Lottery funding is used to the best effect

[quote=Sir Peter Luff, Chair of HLF]“Through shared learning and practice, we will be able to invest National Lottery players’ money in the most effective way to see English museums of all sizes thrive for future generations.”[/quote]

Sir Peter Luff, Chair of HLF, said: “Museums are not just an important part of England’s heritage, but they provide precious public services, from education to community engagement. HLF is proud to be working together with ACE, to offer the most insight and informed support to deliver the most impact for the museums sector. Through shared learning and practice, we will be able to invest National Lottery players’ money in the most effective way to see English museums of all sizes thrive for future generations.”

Sir Nicholas Serota, Chair of ACE, said: “Arts Council England is pleased to be working with HLF to strengthen our support for England’s museums. Through their collections and knowledge, they open our eyes to the wonders and challenges of the world and can help us find our place in it. I hope that, together, we can help museums meet the challenges they face and ensure that more people are able to benefit from the excellent museums across this country.”