The Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has commissioned research on the repair and maintenance of historic places of worship.
Places of worship that have been ‘listed’ for their special architectural or historic interest can generally reclaim the VAT paid through The Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme. This scheme has operated since 2001 and is funded by the UK government through DCMS. The short online survey is to help build understanding of individual places of worship’s experience of the scheme. This survey consists of around 25 questions and will play a vital role in understanding the outcomes and impacts of the scheme. As many places of worship as possible are asked to participate, to produce reliable findings.
The Archdeacons and Church Buildings Team would strongly suggest that all PCCs who have responsibility for listed churches respond to the survey.
Be aware that it has been commissioned alongside the addition of a cap on claims for the next financial year (see this earlier story on our website) and the upcoming three-year spending review across government, so it is really important that DCMS can hear from places of worship about the importance of the scheme and how it helps PCCs care for these places of worship which form such a significant proportion of our national built heritage.
The survey is here and is open until 25 March. You can also access the survey using the QR code. If you need any support with completing the survey or have any questions, contact the church buildings team on churches@cofe-worcester.org.uk for help.
