The Joint Museums Committee of Worcestershire Council met on Wednesday 12 June 2024 to discuss several key issues, including the approval of the new strategic plan for the county's museums, the financial performance of the museums, and the upcoming exhibitions and events. The committee approved the strategic plan and discussed the financial challenges and opportunities facing the museums.

Approval of the New Strategic Plan

The committee approved the new strategic plan for Worcestershire's museums, which outlines the vision and goals for the next five years. The plan focuses on increasing visitor engagement, enhancing educational programmes, and improving the preservation of collections. Councillors highlighted the importance of community involvement and partnerships with local schools and organisations. One councillor stated, The strategic plan is a roadmap for our museums to become more inclusive and educational spaces for all residents of Worcestershire.

Financial Performance of the Museums

The financial performance of the museums was a significant topic of discussion. The committee reviewed the financial reports and noted both the challenges and opportunities. The museums have faced budget constraints, but there have been successful efforts to increase revenue through ticket sales, donations, and grants. The committee discussed potential strategies to further improve financial stability, including exploring new funding sources and cost-saving measures. One member emphasised, We must continue to find innovative ways to fund our museums to ensure their sustainability.

Upcoming Exhibitions and Events

The committee was briefed on the upcoming exhibitions and events planned for the county's museums. Highlights include a major exhibition on the history of Worcestershire, a series of workshops for children, and a collaboration with local artists. These events aim to attract a diverse audience and provide educational opportunities for the community. The committee expressed enthusiasm for the planned activities and their potential to increase museum attendance.

For more details, you can refer to the Public reports pack 12th-Jun-2024 10.00 Joint Museums Committee and the Public reports pack 12th-Jun-2024 11.00 Joint Museums Committee.