Because our fingers are on the pulse of church fundraising nationwide, we’re able to bring you details of an exciting new grants scheme released by National Heritage Memorial Fund.
The Listed Places of Worship Roof Repair Scheme is open to all listed places of worship within England that need help with their roofs and rainwater goods. Amounts are available between £10,000 and £100,000 but only to those that are not in receipt of other grants.
If you think your church can benefit, visit the website at www.churchcare.co.uk/churches/funding-and-grants/roof-repair-fund and download the application form – but hurry, applications are only being accepted until midday on Friday 30 January 2015! Full details below.
What is the scheme for?
The Listed Places of Worship Roof Repair Fund is £15million set aside by the Government to enable repair works to be undertaken to the roofs and rainwater disposal systems of listed places of worship. Repairs will have been identified as urgent and necessary by the architect or professional responsible for the building: in the case of Church of England buildings, this will generally be through the existing Quinquennial Inspection Report.
The aim of the scheme is to allow works to take place that will ensure that the building is weather-tight, and prevent further deterioration of the fabric of the listed building. This will allow the buildings to remain safe and open to the public for worship and other community use.
Who can apply?
Any listed places of worship in the United Kingdom, of any faith and denomination that meets the criteria of urgent need can apply.
Grants between £10,000 and £100,000 are available. This can cover the full amount of your project value, excluding VAT. Alternatively, if your project is above this value, you can contribute your own funds. (VAT can be recovered via the Listed Places of Worship Grant scheme – for information click here)
For full eligibility details, download the official guidance document: please click here.
Grants will be awarded by the end of March 2015 and successful applicants will need to undertake the repair works within a two-year period.
How do I apply?
Applications should be submitted directly to the Listed Places of Worship Roof Repair Fund before midday on Friday, 30 January 2015.
A dedicated website, including application form, guidance and Frequently Asked Questions is available: please click here.
To download the application form in PDF form for reference, click here. Please note that an electronic application form will be available from 22 December via the dedicated website. We advise that you ensure you have read and understood the guidance before you begin your application.
If you are having difficulty with your application or determining whether you are eligible, you can contact the Fund administration team by emailing enquiries@lpowroof.org.uk.
