Hard Times: Dickens Museum one of many who fear closure

Published by Florence McCrae on May 2nd 2020, 12:12pm

London’s Charles Dickens Museum is one of many who fear closure as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. The collection, housed in the home of the author, has been financed by ticket sales, however, with no visitors since March, the director fears permanent closure may be on the cards.

Cindy Sughrue, the head curator of the museum, said that: “We have funds to get us through the end of April, and we’ve got a little bit of savings after that.

“I can see that we can eke out until September. But, if the social distancing measures continue beyond that, then there’s a real danger that we will not survive.”

It is estimated that at present between ninety-three to ninety-five per cent of museums in the world are closed as a result of Covid-19. Further research conducted by ICOM the International Council of Museums, indicates that ten per cent may not reopen.

In a survey by the Network of European Museum Organisations, 30 respondents in a survey across more than 40 countries voiced concern that they will have to close permanently in the aftermath of the pandemic, including Spain’s Museum of the Americas and Austria’s Kornberg Castle.

The impact of Covid-19 upon museums is dependent upon the country in which they are situated. State sponsored institutions in Europe, for example, are less vulnerable than US establishments who are almost entirely dependent upon ticket sales. According to the American Alliance of Museums, almost 30 per cent of museums may fail if no immediate action is taken.

With museums currently unable to rely upon the public for support, Alistair Brown, a policy advisor for Britain’s Museums Association, looks to the future: “The biggest factor will be when reopening happens.”

Share this article


Leaders of Great Britain

About Leaders of Great Britain

Leaders of Great Britain hosts a series of engaging events featuring prominent figures from the worlds of politics, sports, business, and entertainment. Our goal is for every attendee to leave these gatherings with profound leadership insights that transcend boundaries. Learn More.


Related Features


Authored By

Florence McCrae
Literary Editor
May 2nd 2020, 12:12pm

Follow Us

Follow @LeadersGBNI on Twitter for more live updates

Share this article


Popular Features

FEATURES | Published October 7th 2024, 4:04 pm

Margaret Ollivier: Ensuring Respect and Inclusivity at Expect Ltd

FEATURES | Published September 16th 2024, 11:11 am

Andrew Martin: Steering the Course of Planning and Development

FEATURES | Published July 26th 2024, 7:07 am

Paul Bowley: Transforming Lives with Abbeycare Group

© Copyright 2024, Leaders of Great Britain.