Is my project eligible for a grant?
Any place of Christian worship within Wiltshire, including Swindon, can apply for a grant. Applications from churches or chapels outside Wiltshire will be rejected
Only certain fabric repair and community enhancement projects will be considered. Please check the table of eligible repairs and enhancements in the grant eligibility table below. Please note that church projects that have been started before Trustees have formally considered the application will not be eligible for a grant
Click for Eligibility For Grants Table
Does my place of worship have to be a subscriber to the Trust?
No, but the Trustees ask if applicants have supported ‘Ride & Stride.’ Conditions are attached when grants are awarded requiring beneficiaries to display a poster and continue to support the work of the Trust. Individual memberships of the Friends of Wiltshire Churches are also encouraged.
What is the timetable for applications?
The Trustees meet twice a year in June and November to consider applications for grants.
You must submit your application form before the latest deadline for submission (17th April for the June meeting and 17th September for the November meeting). Any late applications will be held for the next meeting.
To remain eligible for a grant, you must not start your church project until after the Trust meeting that is due to consider your application.
What happens after my application has been submitted?
When the completed application form is received you will receive an acknowledgement. A copy of the application will be sent to the appropriate Denomination or Deanery Representative. They will contact you to arrange a visit so that they can report to the next meeting of Trustees. In the meeting, Trustees will consider all eligible applications for a WHCT grant. Any applicant churches or chapels that stand out for their contribution to advancing the Christian religion may also be considered for a grant from the Hartham Church Charitable Trust Fund (HCCT Fund).
In order for visits to be arranged, made and reports prepared, applicants should plan to submit their completed application form well before, and at the very latest by 17th April for the June meeting and 17th September for the November meeting.
The content of your application form will be stored and processed securely. We are committed to protecting your privacy and will protect your personal information in accordance with the WHCT Privacy Statement 2020
When will I know the decision taken at the meeting?
Usually applicants receive the decision within one day of the meeting, followed by a confirmatory letter.
Other Charities and Grants
Internet search to confirm current charities and their guidance and conditions is recommended. Certain grant making organisations are listed in Charitable Grants for Churches 2016 and the Bristol Diocesan Funding Guide June 2018
For Clergy Only – The Clergy Support Trust provides a range of support to Anglican clergy. See the CST website
Other Issues
Email the Grant Sec at grantsec.whct@gmail.com if you have any issues or concerns on the eligibility of your church or the application process.
Applications
Go to the next page, Apply for a Grant