Government to maintain VAT relief on repairs for historic churches

Background

We urgently call on the Government to maintain the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme (LPWGS) and VAT relief on church repairs. Not doing so, we believe, adds a 20% tax burden on struggling congregations, threatening historic churches and signalling reduced support for Christian institutions.

Additional details

The LPWGS, which has provided £300m+ since 2014 to cover VAT on repairs, ended on March 31, 2026 after its final £23m was spent. A new £92m fund over four years, limited to England and competitive, falls short of what is needed. We believe historic churches will as a result face financial strain, risking closures, neglect, and loss of heritage.

Where it’s popular

Constituencies with the most signatures on this petition.