Associate feature: The Vital Role of Museums and Galleries in Scotland’s Society and Economy

There are over 450 museums and galleries across Scotland, from Shetland to Stranraer, from Benbecula to Buchan. Every MSP will have something on their doorstep, and we know from conversations with politicians of all parties that they are much valued institutions. There is a growing recognition that they need support to secure their future. 

The value of museums and galleries to our economy is clear. The spending impact of visits is estimated at £900 million a year and according to a recent survey, visitor numbers are up overall compared to pre-Covid levels.  

And we know from research by VisitScotland that our rich history and culture remain a top draw for tourists. 

Beyond that, Scotland’s museums and galleries contribute to a range of important national outcomes including improving health and wellbeing, education, climate awareness, building cohesive communities, and supporting fair work and skills development.  

Research shows that they support better educational outcomes, with visits to museums leading to improved attainment, better understanding of curriculum subjects, and improved examination grades. Children and young people from disadvantaged areas benefit most. Their confidence improves, as do their social and communication skills. Museums also help teachers feel more confident about finding creative ways to deliver the curriculum. 

Research also indicates that visiting museums offers health and wellbeing benefits. Visits can reduce stress and anxiety, lessen feelings of isolation, and even help alleviate chronic pain. Museums have been shown to improve outcomes for people with dementia, as well as their carers. 

Despite being assets, museums and galleries have struggled to access capital funding and have had limited access to grant funding. The Scottish Government’s draft budget for 2025-26 does include a welcome uplift for culture, including increased funding for museums. There is also a new culture and heritage capacity fund, recognising the challenges the sector faces. From the need to increase pay to changes in national insurance to the rising cost of maintenance, pressures on museums and galleries are growing, not shrinking. Many rely on funding from local authorities and have been targeted for potential cuts, despite the clear benefits to local communities. 

The latest sector survey shows most museum and gallery organisations have faced a real terms decrease in funding while experiencing a rise in their outgoings. The proportion of organisations reporting financial reserves of less than 4 months has risen, and 11% of respondents feel their organisation is at risk of closure in the next 12 months.  

A consequence of deteriorating finances is a shift in roles. Front-of-house jobs are taking priority, while curatorial, education, and engagement roles are being lost. This means we may be keeping the doors open but losing the ability to care for and share the stories of the artefacts and artworks we hold for the people of Scotland. 

Opinion polling tells us the public’s biggest worries continue to be healthcare and the cost of living. Given the positive impacts museums and galleries have on public health, as well as providing free or low-cost access to learning and enjoyment, MSPs of all parties should be looking for every opportunity to secure the future of the sector. The draft budget before parliament presents such an opportunity. 

For MSPs and researchers looking to deepen their understanding, I recommend reading the recent sector survey on the Projects and Research section* of our website. We can also help arrange visits for MSPs to meet the skilled workers and passionate volunteers running museums and galleries in their local communities. We know they appreciate politicians taking time to celebrate achievements and listen to concerns. We look forward to more of those connections during 2025.

This article is sponsored by Museums Galleries Scotland.

www.museumsgalleriesscotland.org.uk