The Designation Scheme was established in 1997 at the behest of the government and is now administered by the Arts Council England. Currently, 152 collections in England hold this status. The Vindolanda Trust was awarded Designated status in 2016.

“The Designation Scheme exists to celebrate collections of outstanding resonance, that deepen our understanding of the world and what it means to be human. The Arts Council is passionate about collections and their ability to impact upon and enrich our lives, and the Designation Scheme is an important and visible assertion of our belief in their enduring cultural value… Our collections hold the key to who we are and they are an irreplaceable resource. Designation is an enduring award and it is crucial to the Arts Council’s mission to bring great art and culture to everyone. Designated collections are located in both rural and urban centres across the country, from Cornwall to Cumbria."

• From Designated Collections, Arts Council England

Vindolanda’s Collection

To receive Designation, a museum, library or archive has to prove to the Arts Council that the collection it holds is of national significance, that it has had a recognised and lasting impact on society, that it is of outstanding quality and finally, that there is an active programme of research into the collection. The collection here at the Vindolanda Trust has all the needed qualities and we are proud of its Designated status.