Statement about the Institute of Detectorists Feasibility Study
In July 2020 Historic England announced funding for a feasibility study into setting up a new organisation for supporting and training metal detectorists to deliver archaeological value from their hobby.
Working with archaeologists and others in the heritage sector, the study aims to explore the possibility of setting up an ‘Institute of Detectorists’ which would focus on training opportunities to promote responsible metal detecting and increase archaeological knowledge.
Such an Institute would also encourage greater cooperation between detectorists and archaeologists in the investigation of archaeological sites and landscapes, as well as supporting voluntary self-regulation and the sharing of best practice.
The feasibility study’s Project Team have reached out to the National Council for Metal Detecting (NCMD) to invite their engagement. The suggested Institute is not envisaged to replace the NCMD or any other hobbyist association.
Historic England has good relations with the NCMD and we have been working closely with members for several years to help prevent illegal metal detecting and damage to irreplaceable archaeological sites.
There has been some misinformation about what the study is trying to accomplish and what the Institute would do if it were indeed set up. There is no intention that the proposed Institute of Detectorists would introduce mandatory licencing for hobbyist detectorists.
Since the study was launched last year, feedback from detectorists has been analysed to determine the level of support for a new body and the activities and opportunities they would like a new organisation to offer them. Research is also being carried out to see whether it could be sustainable. The feasibility study completes this year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why have you given £50,000 of public money towards this feasibility study?
The Association of Detectorists Community Interest Company applied to Historic England for funding through one of our grant schemes. Our grant schemes directly address our organisational priorities and the breadth of funded schemes help us to champion, protect and increase people’s understanding of England’s historic environment.
Organisations including local authorities, universities, charitable trusts and limited companies are eligible for funding, as are registered self-employed individuals. The Association of Detectorists Community Interest Company was awarded a figure of £47,486 in February 2020 to explore the feasibility of an Institute of Detectorists. This funding is not for setting up such an Institute.
The intention was to explore whether such an Institute can promote and advance archaeological knowledge through enhanced training and information provided to its members. A feasibility study like this is an important first stage in determining what, if any, support we and other bodies interested in archaeology and heritage could provide for a proposed Institute of this kind.
Why aren’t you instead focussing on working with the National Council for Metal Detecting?
Historic England has good relations with the National Council for Metal Detecting (NCMD) and we have been working closely with members for several years to help prevent illegal metal detecting and damage to irreplaceable archaeological sites. However NCMD did not apply for any funding from us. Furthermore NCMD does not represent archaeological interests, and the purpose of the proposed Institute would be to provide detectorists interested in joining it with a level of archaeological knowledge and understanding to help us protect our shared heritage.
The Project Team invited NCMD to participate in the feasibility study at an early stage but it declined. Any proposed Institute which emerged from the feasibility study would not seek to replace the NCMD, but to work alongside it.
What steps were taken to confirm the recipient was suitable to receive the funding?
Our grants process is robust and clearly set out in our Guidance for Grants Projects. The recipient submitted a detailed, costed application, which defines outcomes, tasks, the programme and day rate costs for those working on the project. This was circulated for review within Historic England to expert staff using a National Audit Office and Internal Audit reviewed grants process.
External bodies were also consulted before the grant was agreed. Standard due diligence checks were carried out on this company before the grant was agreed. This is in line with minimum standards for government grants.
What mechanism is in place to audit and monitor how the money you award is being used?
Grants are paid in instalments subject to the completion of agreed milestones outlined within the funding agreement and Project Design. A Project Assurance Officer is attached to the grant to monitor the project on a regular basis and to ensure delivery. Progress reports are produced at agreed points in the programme and regular meetings are held to discuss progress and issues. Payments are made against the successful adherence of the project to the agreed method, scope and timetable. If we are not satisfied with progress, funding can be withheld.
In accordance with all our grant schemes, we are subject to twice yearly audits by The National Audit Office and the Government Internal Audit Agency. Each claim is checked, follows our quality assurance processes and is in full compliance with minimum standards for all government grants.
Does Historic England run the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS)?
The British Museum runs the PAS.
How is Historic England funded?
Historic England receives most of its funding from government via the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.