About Us

The Detectorist Institute and Foundation (DIF)

For decades, the hobby of metal detecting in the UK, has received strong support from national organisations such as the National Council for Metal Detecting (NCMD)

In contrast, the Detectorist Institute and Foundation (DIF) focuses on a distinct area of interest: embedding detecting techniques into professional archaeological practice and promoting detectorists as essential members of the archaeological team.

The DIF encompasses far more than just archaeological site work, with interests in the subject extending across Europe and around the world. Our detectorist-led activities include exploring and developing contextual landscapes, utilising spatial geolocation for dating evidence through finds and assemblages, and celebrating historical significance. We also uncover stories and sometimes rewrite history, through the conservational efforts of detectorists.

During its development stage in establishing a body committed to heritage conservation for the next century, the DIF received two rounds of government funding through Historic England.  Our Feasibility Study can be found here:

Historic England Research Reports

Over recent years, the DIF has developed an approach focused on building bridges between detectorists, archaeologists, and the heritage sector, emphasising how detectorists, when working to archaeological principles, can be instrumental in the conservation and preservation of material cultural heritage.

In defining a ‘detectorist’ differently from ‘metal detectorists’—specifically, as someone interested in all-material artefacts forming the archaeological record—the DIF promotes to archaeologists the benefits of integrating detecting into professional practice, and advocates for a consistent application of the SPIA Survey methodology.

There is a global need for detectorists to collaborate closely with archaeologists to enhance artefact discovery, improve site preservation, and enrich historical interpretations

Education and a charitable status that support reinvestment into detectorist-led conservation projects lie at the heart of the DIF. Field testing methodologies and best practices in many archaeological projects, along with winning the prestigious ATF Award 2019, have led to us achieving ‘Institute’ status from the Secretary of State and to our registration with the Charity Commission.

Recently, a detecting business has been established as a pilot project and has secured a contract that incorporates all elements of an archaeological project. This initiative adheres to the client’s stringent requirements, including a carefully planned Written Scheme of Investigation through to the Final Report. The pilot demonstrates the viability of professional detecting businesses and aims to serve as a strategic framework for site evaluation, enabling detectorists to become integral members of the archaeological team.

Join the Detectorist Institute and Foundation (DIF) today and be part of a pioneering community that integrates professional detecting with archaeological excellence, contributing to conservation and the advancement of historical knowledge.

Institute

By joining the DIF, the Institute will receive funds to help us raise the profile of detectorists who work according to archaeological principles and values, furthering our knowledge of the past.

Your support will enable us to:

  • Develop the DIF National Resource Hub for the benefit of all stakeholders.
  • Provide information on current laws and regulations in an increasingly complicated environment for detectorists and landowners.
  • Promote the integration of metal detecting into professional archaeological practice.
  • Develop a consistent approach to utilising detectorists through new methodologies, standards, and guidance.
  • Create a national educational program that offers various levels of education and training for those interested.
  • Be actively involved at the highest level in matters concerning the integration of detectorists in the heritage sector.
  • Increase the number of detectorists assisting archaeologists on projects as part of the archaeological team.
Join the DIF

Foundation

By joining the DIF, the Foundation will receive funds, including an extra 25% in Gift Aid, to support detectorists interested in an archaeological approach and contributing to heritage conservation.

Your support will enable us to:

  • Establish the Foundation as a Registered Charity and transform it into a funding organisation.
  • Create a Funding Pool to support detectorist causes, aiming to serve the public good.
  • Focus our efforts on making a tangible difference in protecting and conserving heritage.
  • Develop our DIF National Resources Hub to benefit all stakeholders.
  • Document and define new archaeological discoveries made by detectorists.
  • Commission geophysical surveys in partnership with detectorists, providing comprehensive dating evidence for site evaluations.
  • Produce interesting and educational online media content, designed to engage a broad audience and all stakeholders.
Join the DIF

Institute of Detectorists CIC: Articles of Association, Declaration of Formation.

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The Detectorists Foundation CIO: Asset-locked Charity to the Institute of Detectorists CIC – Charity Objects

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