CIfA Area and Special Interest Groups

CIfA's Area and Special Interest Groups represent different specialisms, geographical areas and themes across the historic environment sector. They were formed by CIfA members who want to promote the Institute's work and provide a forum for discussion regarding good practice and assist in setting high professional standards. Groups also present specialist views through the Advisory Council and respond to consultations from external bodies when requested.

Connecting with CIfA's groups will keep you up to date with current policy and professional practice through meetings, CPD training events, and e-newsletters. Please use the dropdown menus and links below to see each group's webpage.

Area groups are by geographical boundary and include both countries and smaller regional areas.

Join a CIfA group

CIfA members can join any groups for free by ticking their preferred groups from the list under 'update individual contact details' in the members area (requires login) or when you renew your membership each year in April.


Non-CIfA members can join a group for an annual fee of £10 per group, though it may be worthwhile applying to be a CIfA member if you wish to join several of them. To join a group, click here. You can also use this link to renew your membership.

Volunteer on a CIfA group committee

Being part of CIfA allows you to take an active role in supporting and shaping the profession. We draw on the expertise and knowledge of CIfA professionals in all our work. The best way to influence is to get involved.

Being part of a CIfA group committee allows you to work on important issues within your specialism or area and advise CIfA. To find out more please have a look at the individual group pages above and the links below.

Setting up a new CIfA group

Interested in setting up your own Area or Special Interest Group? Please read the regulations governing area and special interest groups (Pdf) and contact CIfA before submitting a proposal. This helps us to manage staff resources and offer support on the different formats.