Additional Resources
There are a wide variety of information sources on developing and establishing additional uses within places of worship.
Please note that, although a lot of information is denomination specific, there are likely to be elements useful for your situation. If you are considering a specific model, we encourage you to get advice from your denominational body as well.
Mixed use and development projects
Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE) is the national voice for the 38 rural community councils which make up the country’s largest rural network. It provides information on issues such as community planning, social enterprises and digital inclusion.
Business Planning Toolkit: The Churches Conservation Trust, in partnership with the Prince’s Regeneration Trust, has developed a toolkit aimed at volunteer and community groups seeking to bring new life to heritage buildings. It focuses on the development of a well-structured business plan.
Church Build is a collection of advice and articles on the practicalities of carrying out development projects in churches, covering areas such as project management, finance and partnerships.
The Church Urban Fund (CUF) was established by the Church of England and works through the Church of England’s local parish networks, alongside other faith-based and secular organisations, to bring about positive change in neighbourhoods.
The Diocese of Hereford's Crossing the Threshold toolkit is community development approach to the use of church buildings. The toolkit is a step-by-step resource for churches carrying out projects which will open them up to the wider community.
Diocese of Chester: How to fundraise is an example of one of many diocesan and other sources of advice on fundraising for projects.
Empowering Design Practices: This five year project explores how community-led design can empower those who look after places of worship to create more open, vibrant and sustainable places.
Locality is a national network of community-led organisations. They help people set up locally owned and led organisations and support the exchange of best practice and ideas.
One Church 100 Uses is a Community Interest Company and social enterprise. They work to help churches with networking, fundraising and management of development projects.
The Plunkett Foundation helps rural communities to set up and run community-owned shops and other community-owned rural services. They are able to advise on governance.
Resourcing Christian Community Action is a Church of England initiative to bring together current best practice in providing Christian care in local communities with the resources and knowledge needed to multiply this across the country.
Funding directories
There are several funding directories which allow users to search for grants based on certain criteria.
The Heritage Alliance and the Architectural Heritage Fund manage The Heritage Funding Directory. It is a free, easy-to-use guide to potential sources of support, financial and otherwise, for anyone seeking to undertake projects related to the heritage of the UK.
The National Council for Voluntary Organisations published Funding Central. It provides up to date information on local and national sources of funding for charities and projects as well as funding training opportunities.
GRANTfinder offers a searchable database as well as guidance to a wide range of organisations in the UK’s public, private and voluntary sectors.
Directory of Social Change is a comprehensive directory providing links to the main funding websites. There is a registration fee, but your local authority or local library may be able to provide cheaper access.
Grants Online provides a comprehensive list of grant funding opportunities from the European Union, UK Government Agencies, the Lottery as well as Grant Making Trusts and Foundations. This is available through subscription.
