Through its successful mid-point inspection, Cumbria Archives has proven its dedication to upholding the highest standards in archival excellence.
Archive Service Accreditation is the UK standard for archive services, ensuring the efficient management and improvement of archival institutions through external validation and identification of best practices. The accreditation process involves rigorous assessments by trained assessors, followed by confirmation from the Archive Service Accreditation Panels.
Cumbria Archives was one of the first archive services in the UK to achieve accredited status in 2013. It was formerly run by Cumbria County Council as Cumbria Archive Service and is now one service hosted by Cumberland Council and supported by Westmorland and Furness Council.
The recent mid-point inspection, which included visits to both the Whitehaven and Barrow Archive Centres, highlighted the service's continued effectiveness and adaptability.
The Accreditation Panel praised Cumbria Archives for delivering effectively with excellent service provision. The panel also recognised the Service's ability to successfully adjust to changes in local governance while continuing to meet the high standards set by Archive Service Accreditation.
Accreditation is a kite mark of excellence and a benchmark for caring for the collections to the highest professional standards. As Cumbria Archive Service looks toward the future, it remains dedicated to preserving and promoting the region's rich heritage. The exemplary work of its passionate team will undoubtedly continue to inspire and engage the community for generations to come.
Cumbria Archive Service is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and providing access to historical records of Cumbria. With accredited status, it is at the forefront of promoting good practice and raising the standards of archival services throughout the UK.
Cllr Virginia Taylor, Westmorland and Furness Council Cabinet Member for Sustainable Communities and Localities, said; "Cumbria Archive Service has been an invaluable resource for researchers, historians, and anyone seeking to connect with the past. I’d like to thank everyone who provides this service for their commitment to excellence, to the preservation of our local heritage, and for being so efficient and welcoming to users. I am delighted that their success has been recognised through the mid-point inspection."