Project Overview

‘Heritage for Everyone’ builds on the success of our 2022 pilot program, ‘Together Again: Sharing New Cultural Experiences.’ This initiative is part of the larger National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) program, now extended to four years and expanded to include the Mendip and Taunton Deane areas. Our goal is to address the continuing demand for cultural activities that support wellbeing, particularly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, the cost-of-living crisis, and other global challenges. Watch the video below to learn more about the project that inspired our current social prescribing activity.

Our program has two primary aims: 

1. Increase Engagement by Underserved Communities: 
   • Make cultural opportunities accessible through partnerships and social prescribing. 
   • Enrich the lives of target audiences by reducing social isolation and promoting community connection. 
2. Understand Audience Needs and Enhance Inclusivity: 
   • Equip the South West Heritage Trust with strategies to meet the diverse needs of Somerset’s communities. 
   • Identify and remove barriers to engagement for independent adult target audiences. 

We focus on underserved audiences, including those who are rurally isolated, socially disadvantaged, or have low socio-economic status. By collaborating with local agencies and partners, we aim to reach individuals who would benefit most from increased access to cultural activities.

Through funding for this project, we are able to enrich our existing offer at each of our Museum sites, providing opportunity for us to try new things and encourage visitors to participate in a range of activities that otherwise wouldn’t be possible.