Established in 2001, the scheme is run by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and is currently funded until 31 March 2025.
The scheme is designed to assist works to places of worship where the costs would be the responsibility of a local congregation or a recognised denomination or faith group. Only formally constituted religious organisations may apply. It is open to UK listed places of worship of all denominations and religions.
The building's sole or main use must be as a public place of worship and it must be used as a place of public worship at least six times a year.
The minimum value of invoices excluding VAT for any one claim to the scheme is £1,000. An application may comprise a number of smaller invoices, but each claim must apply to works that are eligible under the scheme and together be over £1,000 excluding VAT.
An application for only one claim can also be made in any 12-month period as long as it is between £500 and £1,000 (excluding VAT).
Only works carried out to repair, maintain or alter the fabric of an existing listed building are eligible. Works must be carried out by a VAT registered contractor.
To be eligible, the place of worship must be listed with the relevant statutory listing agency: Historic England, Historic Environment Scotland, Cadw (for Wales), Historic Environment Division in the Department for Communities (for NI). Claims will only be considered for repairs to buildings that are listed at the time the work is carried out.
Applications are only accepted in arrears for works already completed.
Applications can be made at any time until 31 March 2025.
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