Lottery Funding
The National Heritage Memorial Fund (NHMF) was originally set up as a fund of last resort for the support of heritage projects in memory of those who have given their lives for the United Kingdom. Under the National Lottery Act 1993 (as amended by the National Lottery Act 1998) it is now also responsible for distributing the heritage tranche of the proceeds of the Lottery.
The NHMF encompasses two separate funds: the National Heritage Memorial Fund (HMF) - which continues to fulfil the original purpose and the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF). Decisions on applications to both funds are made independently of Government by the Trustees of the NHMF who are appointed by the Prime Minister on the advice of the Secretary of State.
The HMF, which is grant funded by the Department, is able to support projects which will preserve or enhance land, buildings, collections and objects of outstanding importance to the national heritage of the UK and which are in danger of being sold abroad, developed, damaged or lost. The HLF gives financial help to capital projects encompassing both the natural and cultural heritage, including museums and galleries, archives and industrial history. The remit extends across the whole of the UK.
The National Heritage Act 1997 extended the powers of the NHMF to assist a wider range of projects and applicants. It can now support projects promoting access to the heritage, its enjoyment, study and understanding, and the development of heritage skills.
Restrictions as to the ownership of heritage assets have also been removed, though heritage importance and public benefit remain the key criteria against which all funding applications are assessed.
The HLF has offices in Scotland, Wales and Ireland and in nine regions in England.
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