Birmingham Museums Trust calls for aid as it’s unsuccessful in ACE emergency fund

Birmingham Museums Trust is appealing to the public for help after it failed to secure funding from Arts Council England’s Emergency Response Fund, which has been set up to help cultural institutions survive to the end of September.

The Trust, which managers Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery among other sites in and around the city, has said it will remain closed with no set date for reopening as of yet. Since closing in March due to the Coronavirus pandemic, it has lost 60% of its income

Niels de Vos, Chair of Birmingham Museums Trust: “When the current crisis is over Birmingham will need its museums more than ever. Museums contribute significantly to the local economy and to the vibrancy of the city. They also impact many people’s lives, from the schoolchildren who learn with us to the community groups we support.

“Please donate and help ensure they are still here to do this when we come through the other side. Thank you to everyone who has supported us so far.”

The Trust is urging supporters to visit its Just Giving Page and support the valuable work it does.

Over 100,000 schoolchildren learn with Birmingham Museums Trust every year, and it ensures as many people as possible can enjoy exploring its museums, with everything from autism-friendly sessions to dementia-friendly cafes and livestreaming exhibitions direct into care homes.

While its doors have been closed, the Trust has been working hard to continue this work. It has stayed in touch with visitors by sharing stories from the collection online, hearing your personal stories and encouraging people to stay connected. It has come up with fun and educational online content, as well as delivering essential support where it can, such as running the Sarehole Mill Community Shop.

If you’d like to support Birmingham Museums Trust, every penny really does count, click here.