During a debate in Westminster Hall, MPs praised the contribution that our church buildings make and the value-add that they provide - spiritually, socially and in looking after the most vulnerable people - and calling on the Government to make the Listed Places of Worship Grant scheme permanent.
The LPW Grant scheme allows listed churches, chapels and other places of worship to reclaim VAT on the costs of repair. Nearly half of all grade I listed buildings in England are churches. Those buildings are largely run by volunteers who have to raise the funds needed for repairs. The ability to reclaim VAT on such works makes an enormous difference, particularly when the cost of all building work has increased substantially.
The National Churches Trust’s 'The House of Good' report notably highlights the community benefit of churches: every £1 invested in any church creates a return for the community of £16. Churches, particularly in such rural areas, are often the heartbeat of the community, playing a vital role in supporting and enriching their communities.
St Mary the Virgin in Welney, a church within the Diocese of Ely, was praised during the debate by Terry Jermy (MP for South West Norfolk) for their exemplary community engagement. The church's initiatives include a community coffee morning and providing a warm space in the winter, to bring people together, reduce isolation and much more.
So many of our churches across the diocese run social action initiatives, from running or supporting food banks, groups for the elderly or vulnerable, and parent and toddler groups.
MPs particularly expressed their concerns about the sustainability of churches in rural areas, where congregations are smaller, and fundraising is more challenging - something that many of our rural churches can relate to. The Buildings for Mission project aims to help reduce the burden of buildings management on parishes and dioceses - through better support arrangements and technical systems, as well as providing funding for minor repairs and project development. The fund has provided £9 million for dioceses for 35 locally based church building support officers, and grants for minor repairs and improvement. Our Church Buildings Team work with parishes and churches to care for, maintain and develop their buildings and to offer support and guidance.
The Church of England's commitment to reaching Net Zero Carbon was also praised - here you can find information and support to help you on your journey to Net Zero Carbon, as well as contact details for our NZC and Environment Officers.
Marsha De Cordova (MP for Battersea and Second Church Estates Commissioner) wrapped up the debate by thanking the many church leaders for their leadership, for their selfless service and for the incredible work they are doing in our communities and constituencies up and down the country.