Designated collection at Library and Museum of Freemasonry

Accreditation Scheme

Accreditation Scheme for Museums in the UK

MLA’s Accreditation Scheme sets nationally agreed standards for museums in the UK. The Standard supports museums in identifying opportunities for further improvement and development. There are currently over 1800 museums participating in the Scheme, demonstrating their commitment to managing collections effectively for the enjoyment of all communities.

The current participants within the scheme are listed in the PDF documents below. These lists will be updated following each panel meeting.

National Museum participants (117 Kb PDF)

Participating Museums in England (654 Kb PDF)

Participating Museums in Wales (116 Kb PDF)

Participating Museums in Scotland (167 Kb PDF)

Participating Museums in Northern Ireland (90 Kb PDF)

For queries relating to an application for Accredited Status please contact your Regional Accreditation Adviser and/or Museum Development Officer (where present) in the first instance. Please see section below ‘Supporting participants and applicants’.

For further information please contact Samuel Rowlands (Accreditation Manager) or Sarah Waldron (Team Assistant):

Email: accreditation@mla.gov.uk
Tel: 0121 345 7315

Information regarding the Accreditation Scheme, support and advice arrangements, and sources of information have been included below.

Please click on the appropriate boxes below for details.

About Accreditation

Introduction to the scheme

The Museum Registration Scheme was established in 1988. Since then it has helped over 1,800 museums across the UK to focus on standards and to identify areas for further work and development.

> Read more about about accreditation

Developing Accreditation

Updating the scheme

The standard will be re-presented as a more focused set of requirements, and there will be increased flexibility for museums to demonstrate success.

The Accreditation Committee

Current membership of the Committee

The Scheme is overseen by the Accreditation Committee, senior museum professionals with knowledge and expertise relating to museums of all types throughout the UK.

How do I apply?

Useful Accreditation information.

Information and documents that will help you apply for the MLA's Accreditation Scheme.

> Read more about how do I apply?

Where can I get help?

Support available to applicants and participants

Details and contact information for support arrangements in each English region and for Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland

> Read more about where can I get help?

Retaining your award

Biennial Returns

Museums achieving Accredited Status are required to provide evidence of continued attainment through an information return every two years, known as the Biennial Return.

> Read more about retaining your award

Accreditation Scheme