Museum sector organisations have committed to working in partnership to protect collections at risk due to Covid-19.
Sixteen bodies across the UK including Arts Council England, Historic England, the Association of Independent Museums (AIM) and National Museums Directors' Council want to provide "appropriate and timely advice" to museums facing a precarious future.
"However, the responsibility for the stewardship of the organisation, site and collections remains with the respective governing bodies and an effective response will depend on the willingness and ability of an organisation to take ownership of its issues," a joint statement says.
The organisations say they will, when appropriate, share information if institutions approach them with sustainability concerns to secure the future of their colelctions.
They say they "recognise that it will not be possible to secure a long-term future for all organisations or collections" but believe the chances are better if there is more openness and collaboration around advice-giving and support.