Other forms of giving

Legacies

• Legacies are a lifeline for parishes. Each year around 5,000 people leave a gift in their will to a Church of England parish. In total, parishes receive around £50 million in legacy gifts each year – gifts to finance mission projects, maintain beautiful church buildings and grow faithful communities.
• For many people, leaving a gift in their will is a final opportunity to make a lasting gift to God. It is also a way to make a lasting difference to the future of their church and community.
• Parish Resources have produced guidance and resources to help parishes encourage and receive legacy gifts here.

Free Will Writing and Discount Writing Schemes

• There are several low-cost solicitor wills as well as individual and charity-based schemes available. Click here to view the national Church of England guidance document on Free Will Writing and Discount Writing Schemes.

Gift Aid

• Gift Aid is a government policy that enables tax-efficient giving by individuals to charities in the UK. It is a valuable source of income for your parish, which can increase donations received under the scheme by 25%.
• More information can be found on the Parish Resources website. Further guidance is on the HMRC website.
• The Diocesan Finance team can also support you with Gift Aid. More information can be accessed by contacting the Diocesan Gift Aid Support Officer, Sarah Hewitt on sarah.hewitt@elydiocese.org or by phone on 01353 652707.

Giving for Life - Continuing the Journey

• Giving for Life helps parishes review their approach to issues of stewardship and generosity, within a context of discipleship.
• Following a survey of more than 1,100 parishes, it is clear that most parishes have made real progress in adopting proven good practice over the past few years.
• For more information please visit the Parish Resources website here.