Call to help support city’s museums though new donation scheme
The contactless donation points will be available at Leeds Art Gallery, Leeds City Museum, and Kirkstall Abbey. Visitors can donate online to all venues, including the Leeds Discovery Centre, an open storehouse that offers regular behind-the-scenes museum tours.
The decision to introduce the new model was approved by Leeds City Council earlier this year, with the aim of offsetting unprecedented financial pressures faced by the authority, while continuing to support one of the county’s largest museums and galleries services of its kind.
Any donations received on site will be managed by the Leeds Museums and Galleries Development Trust, a newly-established charity specifically formed to manage fundraising for museums and galleries in Leeds.
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “It’s no secret that these are challenging times for both the museums sector and for local authorities, and the financial pressures facing the council mean we are having to explore new ways of funding some of the services we know are so important to the people of Leeds.
“We know the immense value our museums and galleries have to everything from leisure and education to combatting social isolation and celebrating the city’s unique diversity, so our priority is to ensure these remarkable cultural assets remain accessible and sustainable, both now and in the future.
“These new donation points will allow visitors to help us do that, giving those that can afford it the opportunity to donate a set amount of their choice whilst also ensuring those who aren’t able to donate can still enjoy the city’s incredible attractions.”
The new donation model will replace Kirkstall Abbey’s previous annual pass system – which was free for Leeds residents but £6.20 for non-Leeds residents.
Donations at every site will also help site teams plan and run inspiring events programmes and learning opportunities for all ages.
Leeds Museums and Galleries has one of the most significant multidisciplinary collections in the UK, with more than 1.3 million objects.
Leeds Museums and Galleries Development Trust
The Trust aims to raise funds which will support the work of the eight museums, galleries, and heritage sites that are operated by Leeds Museums and Galleries across the Leeds city region.
Funds raised will enable Leeds Museums and Galleries to continue to develop inspiring exhibition and engagement programmes and ensure that they are accessible and sustainable for visitors now and in the future.
Leeds Museums & Galleries Development Trust is a registered charity, their charity number is: 12112222.
Visit Leeds Museums & Galleries Development Trust website
