The key deliverables of the plan are:
- A framework in which to publish and promote an action plan for charity archives including the establishment of an inter-disciplinary steering group.
- A set of best practice case studies.
- Guidance around archives management issues, including an advocacy document for charity archives, and associated training or events.
- A mechanism to monitor and mitigate charity archives at risk.
- A map of archive services that collect charity archives for use in research and for consultation when responding to charity archives at risk.
- A PhD on charity archives at risk.
- A set of case studies of accredited charity archive services.
Phased approach
- The project has adopted a phased approach to allow for limitations in capacity within The National Archives, and the archives and charity sectors.
- Phase 1 has concentrated on developing and publishing the plan, and developing a mechanism for risk monitoring and mitigation.
- Phase 2 will focus on developing guidance, resources and training, and begin to engage with umbrella organisations.
- Phase 3 will seek to embed this work with decision makers and regulators.
- A number of activities are ongoing including: providing support and engagement to charity archives/collections; encouraging charity archives to apply for and retain accreditation; and liaising with networks and initiatives. This work will continue throughout the phases of the project.