We offer guidance and advice on the day-to-day maintenance of your church and on how to go about making changes to your building.

If you’re interested in the support available to help church in rural areas, we also recommending visiting the Arthur Rank Centre.

  1. A man smiling on pew in church talking with other people

    Seating

    Historic seating can be significant in its own right as well as a major element of the significance of the church as a whole. Changing or replacing it can have a big impact on the interior of your church. We can help you understand your seating and the options for making changes.

  2. Stripped lead of a church roof

    Security and Crime Prevention

    Churches buildings are ideally open places where people can feel welcome and at ease to pray or rest without feeling watched or to enjoy the peace and beauty of the place. Concern about incidences of theft and crime should not prevent this.
     

    We can help you prevent crime in your church

  3. Church bookshop inside bell tower

    Sharing your building and finding partners

    We want to encourage you to make wider, more imaginative and more strategic use of your church building, opening it up to all in your community and giving people new reasons to cross the threshold. We can help you select the right legal and funding model to develop your building for uses beyond worship.

  4. Stained glass window

    Stained glass

    Every window in your church is unique and needs to be understood and respected. Historic glass is one of the most fragile materials in your church. But we can help you see the signs and understand the causes of damage. We can also help you with practical maintenance tips.

  5. Close up on the golden ceiling with dome and arches

    Statements of significance and needs

    If your church is listed, then you need to write a statement of significance and needs to apply for faculty. We can help you focus on what’s important.

  6. Tapestry at St Andrew’s Church, Roker

    Textiles

    Textiles contribute greatly to the character of church interiors and all need to be cared for in a way that is appropriate for the nature and condition of those materials.

  7. The practical path to net zero carbon for churches

    This guidance offers a 'practical path' to net zero carbon for church buildings, showing where most churches should start, and the more advanced projects for churches who use more energy. 

  8. Wooden Statue

    Timberwork

    Timberwork (or woodwork) and wooden furniture contribute greatly to the character of church interiors. Help identify the signs of damage to historic timberwork and furniture and understand the causes of damage.

  9. Steps up to path in ancient woodland

    Trees

    Trees are a traditional and valuable feature in your churchyard. They create character and support wildlife. We can help you take good care of them.

  10. lady chatting and text says webinars

    Webinars on getting to net zero carbon

    Stay informed and be inspired about the Church of England's environment programme and its path to net zero carbon by 2030 by watching our series of webinars.

Source URL: https://www.churchofengland.org/resources/churchcare/advice-and-guidance-church-buildings