Shared Experience Working with
the over 55s

A new programme for older adults. The British Museum works closely with a number of local resource centres to make the Museum more accessible to older members of the local community, who sometimes need a helping hand to make their way around the Museum’s collection.

If you are an organisation working with older adults and would like more information about these programmes, please email communities@britishmuseum.org

Afternoons at the Museum

The monthly sessions are informal drop-in sessions for over 55s which begin with a warm cup of tea and a friendly chat. The participants have an opportunity to handle objects related to the collection; these help trigger conversation and provide a chance for participants to share memories and stories with one another. They also work as a valuable resource for those that are visually impaired and therefore have additional access requirements.

The object handling activity is followed by accompanied visits into the galleries, where participants decide where they would like to go and what objects they are keen to see. In small groups led by experienced Museum volunteers they get support and assistance as they explore and enjoy the collection.

Outreach visits

The British Museum is able to provide an object handling session at local community centres working with older adults on request. These engaging outreach visits work as taster sessions in preparation for a group’s first visit to the Museum, or where participants find it difficult to visit the Museum.