New Round of Large Grants for Urgent and Essential Church Repairs Now Open

Voluntary, community and faith organisations supporting historic places of worship will be pleased to hear that the National Churches Trust has opened the next round of its Large Grants Programme. This fund provides significant support for essential repair work and improvements that help churches remain safe, welcoming and sustainable community assets.

What the Fund Supports  

The Large Grants Programme offers £10,000–£50,000 for major projects, including:

• Urgent and essential structural repairs costing more than £80,000  
• Installation of kitchens and toilets costing more than £30,000  

These improvements can be transformative, enabling churches to host wider community activities, improve accessibility, and secure long‑term viability.

A minimum of 50% match funding is required, and the average award is around £15,000.

Who Can Apply  

Applications are welcomed from Christian places of worship of any denomination, whether listed or unlisted, across the UK. To be eligible, buildings must:

• Have been originally constructed as churches  
• Hold at least six public worship services per year

The Trust is particularly keen to see more applications from non‑Anglican denominations and from a broad geographic spread.

Funding Priorities  

While all eligible projects are considered, priority is given to:

• Architecturally or historically significant buildings
• Urgent structural repairs, especially where a building is at risk and issues are identified in a recent QIR or building survey
• Kitchen and toilet installations where there is clear community need  
• Churches with strong maintenance systems in place  
• Buildings with regular opening hours
• Places of worship demonstrating active community engagement and sound plans for long‑term sustainability

These priorities reflect the Trust’s commitment to protecting heritage while supporting churches to serve as vibrant community hubs.

Application Timeline  

The programme operates through three funding rounds per year, using a two‑stage application process.

The next deadline for Stage 1 applications is:

7 July 2026 (midnight)

For more information and to apply Click here