Heritage site embraces digital growth

A landmark stately home in Rotherham is expanding its digital presence and engaging young people in local history thanks to a significant grant.

Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust, which has owned Wentworth Woodhouse since 2017 and has embarked on a 25-year project to repair, preserve and renovate the Georgian house, has received £132,880 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Officials say the funding will support the creation of a digital strategy to broaden the reach of the Trust’s restoration projects and cultural initiatives, which are showcased on its growing YouTube channel with more than 5000 subscribers.

Helen Featherstone, director of England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “Supporting digital use within heritage is a key focus for us at Heritage Fund and so it is fantastic to see how much the digital volunteers at Wentworth Woodhouse have grown in confidence and ability since 2020. 

“This funding for specialist support will enable them to continue their learning journey with expert, professional guidance.”

The new digital lead will also manage the Trust’s Perception Busters Project, which will see two young people become trainee creative producers for a year and create four heritage-focused films aimed at inspiring younger audiences.

The two trainees will be funded by the Children’s Capital of Culture traineeship programme through Rotherham Council, while production costs of the films will be covered by the Heritage Fund grant.

The films will be seen at Children’s Capital of Culture-funded festivals, staged at Rotherham’s new Arc Cinema and Wentworth Woodhouse in 2025, when Rotherham becomes the first place in the world to host the year-long celebration.

Inspiration for the project came from those who participated in the Children’s Capital of Culture Trainee Creative Producer programmes at Wentworth Woodhouse in 2022 and 2023, who were given the opportunity to develop filmmaking skills, create live shows, documentaries and film concepts.

Many have since formed lasting connections with the Trust, with some becoming volunteers and establishing the Wentworth Woodhouse Filmmakers’ Club, which will collaborate closely with the Perception Busters trainees.

Steve Ash, volunteer founder and leader of Wentworth Woodhouse’s digital team, which was set up during the pandemic and now numbers 25 members, aged from 20 to 80, added: “Before they came to us, they all thought heritage was just old buildings that had no bearing on their lives.

“Their preconceptions were transformed by the hugely positive experience that they had here, and discovering how we use our buildings and gardens to enhance everyone’s lives today.

“Thanks to their idea, we received funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

“The Perception Busters will give two more people training in the art of filmmaking. It’s a massive leg-up to get into the film and TV industry."

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