Sharing your experiences

BEFS brings together members and stakeholders from across the sector

You may think that your event, initiative or project is quite small but you can maximise its impact and connect your activities to others through BEFS. Here is how to achieve this:

• Record the impact of your event or project – you may want to use it as a ‘case study’ or an interesting example of your work to further promote your activities in your local area.
• Post the photos, comments and updates from your event / project / initiative on social media – don’t forget to link to @TheBEFS and to use #HeritageAdvocacy. If the person attending your event uses Twitter, don’t forget to tag them in your posts and photos.
• Take good, high-resolution photos with your MP, MSP, Councillor and use them on your website or blog.
• Submit these photos to the press with a short description of the event and people in the photos.
• You can also send a copy to info@befs.org.uk and we’ll promote your activities via BEFS news bulletin, blog and social media.

Here are some examples of how built environment and heritage organisations in the UK have been approaching advocacy:

• Networked heritage sets out 5 principles of networked heritage – how to use heritage to connect people and place: https://medium.com/networked-heritage/5-principles-of-networked-heritage-49c8b5e0cb50#.9if064yev
• Local Heritage Engagement Network (LHEN) is a project which aims to provide advice and guidance to local people who wish to champion archaeology and heritage in their local areas: new.archaeologyuk.org/lhen-toolkit
• Heritage Alliance Advocacy Toolbox offers a collection of documents and information useful to effectively campaign your local politicians: www.theheritagealliance.org.uk/heritage-advocacy-tool-box/
• Museums and Galleries Scotland: Advocacy Guidance for Scotland’s Museums and Galleries, 2016: www.museumsgalleriesscotland.org.uk/advice/raising-your-profile/
• SAVE Britain’s Heritage has been campaigning for historic buildings since its formation in 1975 by a group of architectural historians, journalists and planners: www.savebritainsheritage.org/
• Chartered Institute for Archaeologists: Protecting Archaeological Services – suggestions of what you can do: www.archaeologists.net/advocacy/protectingservices
• Buildings at Risk Toolkit, part of an initiative funded by Historic Scotland and managed by The Architectural Heritage Fund: www.buildingsatrisk.org.uk/toolkit