At the end of 2023 Museum Development North West published a research report into museum emergency networks and support across North West England. This identified that the risks to museums are increasing, especially due to the growing impact of climate change through water, pests, and mould. The report also highlighted that the levels of emergency preparedness in our museums varies greatly.

It noted that:

• Emergencies and disasters of varying kinds are a common problem that most museums can expect to face at least occasionally. Water related issues are the most common problem, though they vary in scale.
• Most emergencies result in museums calling on support from outside their organisation.
• Risks are increasing, especially from water, pests, and mould.
• Some museums feel that they have been able to mitigate their exposure to risk.
• The level of preparedness for emergencies varies.

The report concludes with 14 recommendations, relevant to all industrial heritage sites and museums across England, organised in five related themes: evidence, awareness, skills, networks, and resources.

You can read the full report here:

MDNW Emergency Preparedness and Response Research Report 2023