Fund of £4m to support Scotland's museums and galleries

A £4m scheme has been announced to support independent museums and galleries across Scotland.

The funding is designed to support establishments hit by the coronavirus pandemic and will be administered by Museums Galleries Scotland (MGS).

Lockdown and an inability to generate income means many have depleted reserves, and the end of the furlough scheme could result in a majority running out of funds before the end of March 2021.

The Scottish Government’s Museums Resilience and Recovery Fund is aimed at supporting the return of staff and the wider reopening of museums and galleries.

Culture secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “Sadly, many of these wonderful institutions are now at a critical juncture in making decisions about whether they can afford to reopen, looking at possible redundancies, cancelling events and putting off critical repairs.

“I am pleased to announce this much-needed support for the sector to help them get through the rest of the financial year.

“We all need to come together to support our local museums and galleries.

“As part of the campaign to encourage Scots to staycation this summer, I would encourage everyone to consider visiting their local museums, galleries and heritage attractions, if they are open.

“Scotland’s communities are relying on our continued support.”