A revised Accreditation scheme for museums and galleries across the UK has been launched in a bid to focus on issues currently affecting attractions, such as collections development.

Arts Council England (ACE); CyMAL: Museums, Archives and Libraries Wales; Museums Galleries Scotland; and the Northern Ireland Museums Council have drawn up the new-look scheme.

Accreditation, which is the recognised quality standard for UK museums and galleries, aims to outline good practice and the revised scheme places a greater emphasis on visitors' needs.

The programme has now reopened to bids, with four organisations including Shakespeare's Birthplace Trust already achieving full Accreditation after testing the new-look process.

ACE chief executive Alan Davey said: "Our ambition is for more people to experience and be inspired by museums and galleries.

"Accreditation is an important way to improve the quality of that experience and to help ensure each visit is as culturally rich as possible."

Dr Delia Garratt, head of collections and interpretation at Shakespeare's Birthplace Trust added: "The Accreditation standard helped us take a good look at our policies, processes and plans in a clear and structured way.

"The external assessment and commentary provided by ACE and the Accreditation panel helped us identify areas for improvement. It gave us confidence that we are operating to a good level of professionalism."

Details: www.artscouncil.org.uk

Image: Britainonview / Simon Kreitem