Today I am announcing the launch of a formal review of the "Guidance for the Care of Human Remains in Museums," originally published by DCMS in 2005.

Since we first issued the guidance over twenty years ago, the legal, ethical, and moral conversations regarding the treatment and care of human remains in museum collections have evolved significantly. While the 2005 guidance has served as a strong foundational framework, it is vital that our national standards reflect contemporary best practice, particularly surrounding the display and return of ancestral remains.

Leadership and Governance

I am pleased to confirm the appointment of Baroness Black of Strome as the Chair of the independent working group tasked with overseeing this review. Baroness Black brings a wealth of expertise to this role as a distinguished forensic anthropologist and President of St John’s College, Oxford. Her professional standing and subject matter knowledge will ensure the review is conducted with the necessary rigour and independence.

The Chair will be supported by a working group of representatives from a wide variety of the UK's museums and will take evidence from independent experts and community representatives.

Scope of the Review

The purpose of this review is to update the 2005 guidance to ensure it remains a practical, relevant and ethically robust tool for museums in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Conduct and Timeframe

The review is expected to conclude within 12 months, with the revised guidance intended to be published on GOV.UK by Autumn 2027.

This review represents a significant step in ensuring our cultural institutions manage human remains with sensitivity and transparency.

https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wms/?id=2026-09-16.hlws361.0