Society of Antiquaries of Scotland
Bringing more diverse voices into the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland’s plans for a new Heritage Hub
Quote from the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland
“The Society learnt much from working with Andy Hyde, an Associate at Horizons Research, over several months in 2024 on our Community Engagement Project. In early 2024 the Society commissioned the consultancy to undertake community engagement to gather people’s views and ideas for incorporation into the development and design plans of the Heritage Hub. A crucial part of this work was to introduce new communities to the Society (and vice versa).
By engaging with a wider range of people and organisations, through semi structured discussions with key stakeholders, public meetings and survey feedback, Andy and co. at Horizons Research gathered insights and helped the Society to better understand the potential benefits and opportunities that a new heritage focused space in Edinburgh could bring to the public both local and further afield. They usefully highlighted several challenges and questions the Society might be faced with. We were impressed by the collegiate working environment Andy brought to the task, ensuring we were kept apprised/informed of progress at all times, and keeping to an agreed timetable. Horizons Research were excellent to work with and we would certainly work with them again and recommend them to others.”
Horizons Research project note
The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland has ambitious plans to develop Scotland’s Heritage Hub – a new space for learning about and contributing to Scotland’s past. These initial plans did not, however, reflect the hopes and needs of wider audiences that are less likely to engage with heritage organisations.
We acted as a learning partner, working closely with the Society to discover new groups to engage with and consider challenges that could be addressed through connecting with Scotland’s heritage.
We hosted a range of online and in-person events, using creative methods to engage with people who are often disadvantaged by destinations and services, people in and outside the heritage sector, Society Fellows, language experts, third sector organisations and many others.we discovered many different opportunities for the Society to develop in the new space and beyond.
A concise final report was produced and encouraged the Society to think differently about its future plans, and also to take the steps required to secure the next round of funding for the Heritage Hub.
Importantly, we nurtured a new community of people ready to continue to work alongside the Society, supporting them on the journey to develop a new inclusive heritage space.
