The Museums Association Code of Ethics for Museums outlines the ethical standards of practice for museums and museum professionals in the UK. The first principle in the Code of Ethics Public Engagement and Public Benefit.
Where public engagement is defined as a two-way process, involving interaction and listening, with the goal of generating mutual benefit.
Where public benefit is defined as any activity or process that delivers meaningful benefit to the public an organisation serves.
Museums and those who work in and with them should:
- actively engage and work in partnership with existing audiences and reach out to new and diverse audiences
- treat everyone equally, with honesty and respect
- provide and generate accurate information for and with the public
- support freedom of speech and debate
- use collections for public benefit – for learning, inspiration and enjoyment.
Your own museum or the museums you are familiar with may define public benefit in its mission, vision, values or strategy. While these titles may vary, it is important to develop a shared understanding and working definition for the work you do with your community partners.