A SALISBURY gallery has been awarded national accreditation.

The Young Gallery, overseen by the Young & Creasey Gallery Trust, has been awarded Accreditation by Arts Council England.

Based upstairs at Wiltshire Council-run Salisbury Library, the venue is a free art museum, boasting a collection of more than 4,000 artworks, prints, sculpture, books and photography.

“Administered by Arts Council England on behalf of the UK Accreditation Partnership, Accreditation is the benchmark for well-run museums and galleries,” a spokesperson said.

“It means the Young Gallery is properly managed and governed to the nationally agreed industry standard and shows the museum takes proper care of its collections, sharing them with visitors and keeping them safe for future generations.

“Accreditation opens up exciting funding opportunities and gives access to professional advice and support.
“It also gives confidence to donors and sponsors who may wish to support the museum in preserving heritage and inspiring future generations.”

The Young Gallery has also been awarded a Small Open Grant of £2,000 from Museum Development South West to support the museum’s messaging and ability to accept small donations.

The grant will help the museum to communicate how donations support the work of the Young Gallery and enable visitors to give small donations through a contactless donation point and a digital platform.

Cllr Richard Clewer, leader of Wiltshire Council, said: “It is fantastic news that The Young Gallery has been recognised by the Arts Council England for its professionalism and sound management.

“This accreditation will make it possible for the gallery to develop and grow, opening the door to exciting new opportunities to bring art to Salisbury in the future.”

The Young Gallery boasts a collection of more than 4,000 artworks, prints, sculpture, books and photography. Picture: Wiltshire Council

Dr Emily Dunbar, curator and gallery manager added: “Securing Accreditation for the newly merged Trusts is a fantastic step forward for the Young Gallery and means we will be able to continue to provide vibrant, free exhibitions and engagement with our collection.

“We are also very grateful for the Small Open Grant as this will help us to communicate the charitable status of the Young Gallery, while also enabling an easy, modern way for people to support the museum and its free programming.”

And Emmie Kell, director museums and cultural property at Arts Council England, said: “We’re delighted that the Young & Creasey Gallery Trust has been successful in gaining their Accreditation status.

“This means that their collections will be looked after and maintained offering inspiration, enjoyment and learning for the local community and visitors to enjoy now and in the future.”