As part of the ground-breaking ‘No Borders’ project Epping Forest District Museum is looking for local residents to take part in two new museum focus groups this summer. The aim of these groups is to involve the local community in ensuring the work of the museum is accessible and relevant to all local people.

The No Borders project

‘No Borders’s is a partnership project between Epping Forest District Museum and two other local museums – Chelmsford Museum in Essex and Lowewood Museum in Hertfordshire. Supported by funding from Arts Council England, this project aims to support the three museums to develop sustainable, inspiring services for the future. Attracting new and more diverse audiences and increasing accessibility for all is an important part of this work. Commercial operations are being expanded, including retail, catering event services and venue hire. It is also planned for the museums to establish new, charitable Development Foundations to undertake fundraising in support of their work the museums.

The Focus Groups

One focus group will look at issues surrounding access to the museum’s services, including physical, sensory and intellectual access. If you are a resident of Epping Forest District living with health or impairment related matters or represent or work with residents with additional access needs and would like to help us improve access for all please do get in touch.

The second focus group is looking to bring together local residents who define themselves as being of Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic background. This focus group will help the museum ensure its future exhibition and events programming and the objects collected reflect the diversity of local residents.

Both focus groups will take place at Epping Forest District Museum and will last 2 hours. Each focus group will be limited to 10 people. Before the meeting participants will be sent the current museum events programme and pre-visit information to review. This should not take more than 30 minutes. All participants will receive a £15 ‘Love2Shop’ voucher to thank them for their time.

Step-free access is available throughout the museum with a lift to the first and second floors. Toilets are located on the ground floor and second floor. A unisex accessible toilet is available on the ground floor.

There is a public car park 2 minutes’ walk from the museum. If you require disabled parking please contact us in advance by calling 01992 716882.

To find out more or to register your interest in taking part in the focus groups please contact the museum by emailing museum@eppingforestdc.gov.uk or calling 01992 716882. Please let us know which focus group you would like to attend, your preferred contact method and usual availability.