Action Forum

Action Forum is a group of local residents who act as thoughtful and creative critical friends of The Fitzwilliam Museum. Bringing together people of different ages, backgrounds, ethnicities, experiences and those who identify as neurodiverse, disabled or those with non-visible disabilities, the Forum reflects the rich diversity of our community. 

Born from our participatory research programme, Action Forum explores how the Museum can truly recognise and respond to the agency, insight and lived experience of diverse groups. It forms part of the Museum’s wider commitment to research with, not just about, communities. 

The group was established in January 2025 and meets quarterly, alternating between the Museum and community venues. Staff are invited to share updates on Museum projects and consider opportunities for meaningful input from members of the Forum. Participants are reimbursed for their time and input.  

Action Forum explores: 

• How can the Museum centre community agency, knowledge and through deep listening, open exchange and active collaboration?
• How can participatory research and practice shape museum research, programmes and organisational priorities?
• What happens when we place communities at the heart of how we expand, develop and use our Museum collections?
• What does meaningful participation look like from the perspective of community members?

To date, members have advised on forthcoming exhibitions, displays and building projects, informed the development of new research projects and co-curated public displays and events that spark connection and conversation.  

Noble, K (2025) Creating Belonging: Museums as spaces for community knowledge-making. Feature, Arts Professional 

If you would like to find out more about the Action Forum, please contact Kate Noble, Assistant Research Professor: Museum Participation and Practice.