We are delighted to announce that we have received two packages of financial support from the Church Commissioners. These are:
- The funding for a two-year post with the title of ‘Church Buildings Support Officer”, recently filled by Tim Lewthwaite. Tim's brief will include assisting PCCs in implementing their vision for improved facilities in church buildings to facilitate increased outward facing community engagement and mission, as well as working with PCCs to develop such vision. Tim Lewthwaite can be contacted at: CBSO@newcastle.anglican.org
- A Minor Repairs and Improvements Grant Fund of £134,000. A panel is being convened to determine the allocation of this fund to churches. Priority will be given to those a) in areas of high deprivation and/or b) where clear need and vision can be demonstrated. Funds will be received in tranches and distributed evenly over the next 18 months.
The Minor Repairs and Improvements grant panel will meet quarterly, and the application deadlines for each quarter are as follows:
Sunday 8th September 2024
Monday 25th November 2024
Monday 3rd March 2025
Sunday 1st June 2025
Monday 15th September 2025
Support for our church buildings is an essential part of our mission in this season as we seek to grow younger and more diverse through our shared values of Seeking Sharing and Sending. We want our buildings to be places of hospitality, hope and outreach, and to be the home of activities valued by our wider communities as well as worship. Many Deanery Development Plans have identified building improvements as a priority for them as they focus outwards in mission, so we are thankful for this timely allocation of resource from the Church Commissioners. We expect both of these resources to be met with high demand, so we will not be able to respond positively to all requests and will be prioritising those in greatest need as well as those with the strongest vision.
Application forms
Minor Improvements Grant Fund Application Form
Minor Repairs Grant Fund Application Form