Reconnecting Archaeology Council for British Archaeology

Reconnecting Archaeology project, an initiative by the Council for British Archaeology (CBA) and supported by National Lottery Heritage Fund funding, aimed at fostering connections within the archaeological community and beyond.

What is Reconnecting Archaeology?

The Reconnecting Archaeology project seeks to bridge gaps and strengthen ties within the archaeological sector. By facilitating collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and networking opportunities, we aim to help create a more cohesive and supportive community.

At the heart of this project are two key objectives: reimagining the CBA's role as a network organisation and reshaping how we connect with archaeology and grassroots archaeologists. We aim to present new forms of socially aware archaeology to a wide audience, helping to inspire fresh perspectives on archaeology and heritage.

This project is made possible thanks to the generous support of The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Their funding has enabled us to launch and sustain this vital initiative, empowering archaeologists and strengthening the sector as a whole.

The project is structured around four key pillars of activity:

1. Audience Research:

Through commissioning research from audience engagement specialists, we aim to update our understanding of existing and potential audiences. This will ensure better service delivery and identify opportunities to reach untapped demographics.

3. Innovative Pilot Projects:

We will implement pilot projects to test new, incentivising models of events and activities, such as introducing an 'Access to Archaeology' pass. By embracing cross-sector collaboration and exploring digital communication platforms, we aim to facilitate knowledge sharing and dialogue among members.

2. Catalysts for Change:

We will spotlight four initiatives that champion equity and community participation. By showcasing models like Uncovering Roman Carlisle and the Scottish Crannog Centre, we aim to help inspire innovation and break down barriers faced by marginalised groups.

4. Organisational Resilience:

We are committed to enhancing our environmental sustainability and fostering diversity and inclusivity within our organisation. By setting ambitious targets to become Net Zero by 2030, we aim to lead by example and provide training opportunities for members to follow suit.

To keep up with our Reconnecting Archaeology project and other events throughout the year, sign up for our newsletter, or consider becoming a member of the CBA to help shape how we imagine archaeology in the future. Members also get to enjoy added benefits such as free copies of the British Archaeology magazine, access to our monthly ‘This is Archaeology’ lectures, and more.

What is the National Lottery Heritage Fund?

The National Lottery Heritage Fund is the largest funder for the UK’s heritage. Using money raised by National Lottery players we support projects that connect people and communities to heritage. Our vision is for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future. From historic buildings, our industrial legacy and the natural environment, to collections, traditions, stories and more. Heritage can be anything from the past that people value and want to pass on to future generations. We believe in the power of heritage to ignite the imagination, offer joy and inspiration, and to build pride in place and connection to the past

The CBA have been incredibly honoured in recieving a grant of £249,729 for the Reconnecting Archaeology project.

We are immensely grateful to The National Lottery Heritage Fund for their support, which will enable us to reimagine and revitalise our role and support of grassroot archaeology in the UK. 'Reconnecting Archaeology' represents a pivotal moment in our journey toward greater inclusivity, sustainability, and impact.

Neil Redfern

Executive Director of the CBA

We are delighted to support the Council for British Archaeology with this important resilience project. Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, work will be undertaken to strengthen the archaeology sector, build relationships, develop new audiences and inspire more people to get involved. This project is a prime example of how we can support heritage organisations in building a long and sustainable future.

Helen Featherstone

Director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund

Over the 80 years of its existence the CBA has successfully championed archaeology in all its forms. This additional funding will enable CBA to further capitalise on the importance of its sector networking role to ensure the whole archaeological community is better informed, learns from each other and can continue to deliver inclusive and inspiring future opportunities for anyone who wants to participate.

Gail Boyle

Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Council for British Archaeology

Projects Part of Reconnecting Archaeology

We have many upcoming projects supported by the Reconnecting Archaeology project and National Lottery Heritage Fund funding, to help us achieve our aims.

Explore our projects below.

Out and About Archaeology

Over the weekend of 18-19 May 2024 we will be out and about exploring places across the UK. With a range of in-person guided walks, a new online tour and a host of self-guided walks and activities, there are plenty of options to get involved.

Find Out More

Catalysts for Change

We're working with four projects that have championed equity and community participation, showcasing new approaches in archaeology. Including Uncovering Roman Carlisle and the Scottish Crannog Centre.

Recruitment

As part of our Reconnecting Archaeology project, we are on the look out for enthusiastic individuals to join our team for audience development and research roles! Keep your eye on this space, and our vacancies page, for announcements!

Vacancies