Apply for a grant

Does your church or chapel need help?

The Trust gives careful and sympathetic consideration to requests for help. This includes a visit to the building and discussions with those involved in the proposed work. We work in association with the National Churches Trust (NCT).

In view of the current coronavirus situation we are unable to visit churches to undertake assessments. However, churches are still invited to submit applications for grants. We are planning a trustees meeting in October so please submit applications for grants by 31st August 2021 for consideration at that meeting. The following deadline for consideration of applications will be 30 November 2021.

What do our grants cover?

Our grants help to cover repairs to the main fabric of the church – walls, roof, windows, floor, drainage – and to help with improvements and alterations to facilities and access to allow greater community use. Over the last twelve months the average amount awarded to each project was £1,886.

Who can apply? Our support is for churches and chapels that are open for Christian worship in the historic county of Somerset.

Policy & Guidelines

For how much? Grants of up to £5,000 can be awarded, but most are between £1,000 to £5,000 based on what is available for distribution.

View case studies

How to apply for a grant

To apply for a grant for your Somerset church or chapel, first read our Policy and Guidelines and then complete the application form or click here to download the form

Grant Application Form

If you have any queries, before completing the form, email the Grants Secretary here.

Maintaining your building

Much damage can be caused simply as a result of poor maintenance. Implementing a schedule of regular maintenance is a great help in avoiding such damage and costly repairs. Guidance on church building maintenance can be found on the website of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB). Also through the National Churches Trust ‘Support & Advice’ page, and at the Church of England’s ChurchCare website under ‘Guidance & Advice – Looking after your church’.

Support our work

Case Studies

Read about some of the successful applicants and how the Trust has helped them repair, alter and improve their churches and chapels.

Find out more

Become a member

We greatly value our members and we do expect that churches and chapels receiving our grants will be, or will become members of the Trust.

Find out more