The Staffordshire History Network brings together museums, historical groups and societies, civic societies, research groups and heritage sites from across the county to share ideas, best practice, news, and training. 

We aim to meet quarterly, and the latest meeting took place at the Museum of Cannock Chase in Hednesford in April.

A montage of photos of the visit to Museum of Cannock Chase showing the pit wheel outside, the stores and our members looking around

Our theme was engaging family audiences. We welcomed Alison Bowyer, Executive Director of Kids in Museums, who outlined some of the key factors in welcoming families to museums, heritage sites and local history events. Family visitors are a huge opportunity for heritage organisations, with families making up at least one third of all museum audiences.

There are barriers to families visiting museums and heritage sites; the cost of a visit, the relevance of the venue and concerns that they will not have a good time or will feel uncomfortable.

The Kids in Museums website has a huge number of free to download resources which can support museums, history societies and heritage venues to welcome families to their spaces and events. 

Rachel Gentle from the Museum of Cannock Chase gave a presentation on the ways in which the museum engages with families through their gallery spaces, exhibitions and events programme. A warm welcome together with plenty of information about the activities are essential, together with practical information about buggy storage, toilet/changing facilities and spaces to enjoy food or a picnic. Activities do not need to be ‘high tech’ or expensive, but it is worth talking to parents and children about what they want – they are the real experts! 

Sarah English, Engagement and Access Manager with Staffordshire Archives and Heritage Service rounded off the formal part of the morning with some top tips for connecting with families.

• Make it clear to families that they are welcome and think carefully about the basics.
• Ensure that you say what ages you are catering for and let families have information so they can plan their visit.
• Don’t be afraid of promoting your activities online through Facebook, family bloggers and family friendly listing sites.
• Don’t worry if it doesn’t go to plan – use the Kids in Museums manifesto to help you audit, reflect and make changes. 

Network members were able to see the work of the Museum of Cannock Chase for themselves during a tour of the galleries, collection store and wider site.

If you are interested in finding out more about the Staffordshire History Network, please click here.

Helen Johnson – Community Engagement & Partnerships Officer