From September 2024, our parishes can apply for grant funding to improve their accessibility and inclusion for those who are deaf, disabled and/or neurodivergent.
This Parish Grants Scheme is initially for parishes in northern dioceses, but this may be expanded in later years.
Parishes can apply for funding for small projects with a grant of up to £5000, or larger works with a grant of up to £50,000.
Ideas for small projects might include implementing a new supportive group for disabled people, improving signage and imagery with inclusivity in mind, enabling a dementia-friendly church, or perhaps training for staff, volunteers and congregations.
Larger projects could include structural alterations to buildings, installing technology such as a hearing-aid loop, purchasing appropriate seating, redesigning the height of surfaces/information boards, providing large-print resources, and more.
The application form and guidance documents can be found here.
You can read more about Accessibility in church buildings here.
For any questions or to find out more, please email Rob Chilton.