Latest news and stories

This year marks 37 years since the deadliest terror attack on UK soil. But the memories of the victims are being kept alive – thanks to a local church.

Churches are not just for worship; these buildings are often the greatest storytellers in the area. They have witnessed events of local and national significance, but they have also been shaped by the people who have connected with them too. However, some of these stories can get lost over time. One church in Lincolnshire decided it was time for them to be told – and found a creative way of doing it.

Rural churches, chapels and meeting houses face a very different reality to their urban counterparts. With smaller – and often shrinking – populations around them, welcoming people inside can often be a big challenge. Throwleigh Providence Chapel, on the edge of Dartmoor, was on the brink of closure when the team decided that change was needed. After starting out small, they’ve gone from strength to strength, bringing in thousands of visitors in recent years and developing bonds within the community.

Historic England has released new research which shows that there is strong public support for preserving the nation’s historic churches. This was even the case among people who are secular or who do not attend church services. But why does this matter now?

Walkers and walking groups are a common feature of the UK countryside, tracking over rural paths and taking in beauty spots. Many churches are located on these ancient routes and form a key landmark for walkers, both for navigation and by providing a place to rest.

The details of the Spending Review have been announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves. The Department of Culture, Media & Sport [DCMS] has been given its budget for the next three years. One choice DCMS must now make is whether to fund the Listed Places of Worship Grants Scheme – a scheme that has so far saved over 13,000 churches but now faces an uncertain future.

Reading is really beneficial, but a wide range of social and monetary factors prevent many from enjoying the benefits. However, there is something that your church can do to help. Mildmay St Jude & St Paul’s Church, in North London, created a Book Bank to run alongside its food bank. Find out how the book bank was established and how the church has embraced it. Plus, get advice for how you can set up your own book bank.

During a Westminster Hall debate, MPs from different political parties urged the Government to fund church buildings if they want to continue to see vulnerable people helped and heritage saved. It was great to see MPs from different parties speak about the value of churches and show their support for The Listed Places of Worship Grants scheme. Find out more about what was covered in the debate here.

The Countryside Alliance published new research showing that, on average, at least eight crimes took place at churches every day from 2022-2024. The statistics are sadly no surprise. And now, through no fault of their own, repair costs to fix the damage will be up to 20 percent more expensive for listed churches.

Churches are often physical archives of local history, preserving the memory of significant figures and events through stained glass, memorial plaques, and of course gravestones. Challoch All Saints, a remote building in Dumfries and Galloway, is one such church. However, a radical graveyard clean-up project has helped the church to create accurate records and make new discoveries.

Changes by the Government have made repairs to any listed place of worship up to 20 per cent more expensive to carry out. Despite this devastating blow for churches, we are pleased to announce in our latest round of grants, we have helped 42 churches, chapels and cathedrals, so they can help keep their buildings open and serving the community.

Starring as a filming location can be really exciting for your church. From the immediate income to the longer-term tourism draw, there are many advantages to be had. Any church could benefit from this but knowing where to start is hard. Find out how you can get involved and how to make the most of the opportunity from independent Film Location Management Consultant Henry Neild and Tricia Davis, from Bolton Percy All Saints parish church.