Herefordshire Museum Service seeks Gypsy, Roma and Traveller voices for a redevelopment project

Hereford Museum and Art Gallery is undergoing an exciting transformation to create a modern, inclusive space that celebrates Herefordshire’s rich and diverse history. 

As part of this redevelopment, the museum service is committed to authentically representing the lives, contributions, and cultures of people of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) communities in its exhibitions and permanent displays.

To achieve this, the service is launching a GRT co-production group and is inviting people from local GRT communities to take part in shaping how their heritage is shared. Participants will play a key role in advising on displays, sharing lived experiences and ensuring the museum reflects a broad and representative history.

Why get involved?

This is a unique opportunity to:
•    Be heard: Share your story and make sure GRT heritage is recognised and celebrated
•    Shape the future: Influence how the museum tells diverse stories to foster understanding
•    Gain insight: Take part in the exciting redevelopment of the museum
•    Receive recognition and payment: Participants will receive a small payment for taking part and will be invited to the museum’s reopening
 

What’s involved?

The museum will work closely with participants between April and August 2025, with flexible 1–2 hour sessions held at the Museum Resource and Learning Centre, Friars Street, Hereford HR4 0AS.  Sessions may also be available online or in hybrid formats. The service is committed to creating a supportive environment, and contributions can remain anonymous if preferred.

How to get involved

If you are interested in joining the GRT co-production group, or know someone who might be, please contact:

Emalee Beddoes, Collections and Learning Curator. Email: herefordmusuems@herefordshire.gov.uk

Thanks to National Lottery players, the National Lottery Heritage Fund is helping make this project possible. The project is also funded by the Stronger Towns Fund and Herefordshire Council. 

Herefordshire Museum Services press release/TT News

(Photographs courtesy of Herefordshire Museum Services)