What we look for

When assessing projects, we will look at the following:

  1. Eligibility – that the proposed work/project aligns with the Church Object and fits one of the funding areas listed on the Main Grants Fund page. If you are unsure if your project is a fit, please contact us for guidance.
  2. The financial position of the church – we will assess financial viability using the church’s most recent accounts.
  3. Reserves – we will look at the church’s reserves policy, the level of reserves that the church holds and the reasons for holding these. If the reserves level indicates that the church might be able to fund the work itself whilst still maintaining an appropriate level of reserves, the application may be turned down on this basis.
  4. Other sources of funding – we will expect that some of the funding for the project will be coming either from the church’s own resources or from other sources. We would usually expect this contribution to be proportionate to the size of the project.
  5. Financial planning for the project – we will look to see that appropriate planning is in place for the funding proposal.
  6. The need for the work – churches need to demonstrate that there is a clear need for the proposed work/project. This could be an explanation of potential further damage if a repair does not take place, evidence of local support for the project or a copy of the relevant parts of a Quinquennial Inspection report.
  7. Consultation – that, where there are other major stakeholders relevant to the project/works (for example, the Diocese, local authority, or building users), they have been consulted and that any concerns/interests have been addressed.
  8. Faculty and/or planning permission – that the required permissions have been applied for, or else details have been provided of when this will be done.
  9. Management of the project/works – that it has been properly planned and will be undertaken efficiently by appropriately qualified personnel.
  10. Timeline – that there is a realistic indication of when the work is expected to start and how long it is expected to take.