Written question WQ94299

Museum development support in Wales is provided directly by the Welsh Government. In this role, Culture Division undertakes and/or funds initiatives, interventions and projects to improve standards and services for our museums. This support includes:

• Working with sector support organisations including the Association of Independent Museums;

• Funding a Small Grants Scheme via the Welsh Museums Federation enabling museums to respond to community needs and improve collections care;

• Delivering an active workforce development programme - equipping our sectors to become more resilient;

• Management of the UK Museum Accreditation Scheme for Wales; and

• The Anti-racist Wales Culture, Heritage and Sport fund.

Other direct financial assistance has also been available through the following schemes:

• Cost of Living Grant fund (September 2022-March 2024) - £289,000.00 to independent museums in response to rising economic pressures.

• Cultural Transformation Capital Programme - the 2024-25 cycle provided support for six new projects, three museums and three libraries, one of which is an independent museum. Delivery commenced from April 2024. The value of this year’s programme is just under £900k.

• Community Facilities Programme – a capital grant offering up to £300k for community led projects to purchase or improve community facilities. Awards made since 2020 include Usk Rural Life Museum (£5000) and Vale of Clwyd Mind (£255k) in partnership with Denbigh Museum.