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Retaining your award

Biennial Returns

Museums who have achieved Accredited Status are required to provide evidence that they continue to meet the standard, and any amendments that may be made. To ensure continued compliance, and to promote continued improvement and innovation, museums must complete an Accreditation Return every two years, known as a Biennial Return.

Biennial Returns will ask for:

  • a short self assessment of the museums continued attainment of the national standard;
  • a report regarding any outstanding Areas for Improvement or Required Action;
  • the museums accounts covering the period of the Return;
  • the museums forward plan reviews covering the period of the Return;
  • a copy of any new or subsequent Forward Plan for the next period, plus appropriate approval;
  • any additional replacement plans or policies relevant to retaining the Standard.

Biennial Returns were sent to all relevant museums early June 2009. Relevant museums include those awarded Full status from February 2005 to November 2007.

The deadline for responses will be 30th September 2009.

Failure to complete and return a Biennial Return to MLA Council by the deadline will result in participants being considered for removal from the list of Accredited Museums.

Should you feel that you will have difficulty completing the report on time, please ensure to contact your Regional Adviser (See Supporting participants and applicants) well before the deadline date.

Useful documents to download:

Welsh language versions:

related links

  • developing accreditation

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

  • about accreditation

    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.

  • accreditation 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?

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

  • where can I get help?

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