Stuart Anderson MP has called on Ministers to increase the funding available under the recently extended Listed Places of Worship Scheme. Analysis shows that the scheme has been cut by £19 million, leaving almost 1,000 buildings at risk.
The previous government provided listed places of worship up to £42 million per year to cover VAT on essential repairs. Since 2010, £346 million had been invested to support projects that repair the roofs, masonry, and monuments integral to such buildings. The new government has reduced the support to £23 million, with a cap on the amount that can be claimed setting in at £25,000.
Stuart launched his campaign in September 2024, when he called on the government to renew the scheme, which is jointly funded by HM Treasury and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. Applicable to all faiths and denominations across the UK, it handles around 7,000 claims per annum.
According to Historic England's latest risk register published in November, 969 places of worship across the country are at risk of being lost as a result of neglect, decay, or inappropriate development. This includes 19 venues in South Shropshire, an increase of three venues compared to the previous year.
In January 2025, Stuart then wrote to places of worship mentioned on the risk register. He urged them to consider applying to the scheme and exploring other funds available. Later in the month, Stuart welcomed a partial extension to the scheme. It was announced that an extra £23 million would be available as grants towards the VAT incurred by registered charities and faith groups on costs of over £1,000 associated with the repair and conservation of listed places of worship.
Stuart has now urged Ministers to "fully fund" the scheme so that places of worship do not lose out on funding. He has said the government must recognise the integral role places of worship play in rural communities like South Shropshire, with research recording activities delivered by places of worship help to save the NHS £8.4 billion a year - the equivalent of employing 230,000 nurses. These activities include mental health support groups, youth groups, music groups, and choirs.
Almost 80% of churches are involved in 35,000 social action projects annually. Places of worship can also apply for support from the Net Zero Carbon programme’s Quick Wins Fund, which is providing £2.4 million to help them become more sustainable and energy efficient. Grants can help buy new LED lighting, pew heaters, insulation, or updated electric supplies.
Stuart Anderson MP said:
"Places of worship are an integral part of community life here in South Shropshire. So, I am committed to supporting them and the brilliant volunteers who look after these magnificent, historical buildings. That's why I am calling on the new government to fully fund conservation efforts – with the £43 million annual budget that had been maintained under the previous government. Having written to places of worship in South Shropshire on Historic England's risk register about the funds, I hope we will receive our fair share of support."
