Members of our team visited St Mary's in Oxted recently to receive an update on the restoration of this wonderful church, which dates back to the 12th century.
Following the Government's refusal to extend the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme - a scheme that provides financial assistance to churches and places of worship across the country - in October's Budget, we wanted to understand what more could be done to support St Mary's. Notably, it is the only place of worship in East Surrey listed as 'at risk' by Heritage England.
The previous Government announced the extension of the scheme in 2023, and from 2010-2024 the Government returned £346 million to listed places of worship. After much pressure the current Government has now extended the scheme until next year, but many 'at risk' places of worship across the country still need further support.
St Mary's has an exceptional fundraising team. Their last campaign enabled them to renovate the top section of the tower, but the lower half remains vulnerable.
During our visit, we discussed how St Mary's could leverage support from multiple different funding schemes and explore ways to increase their income through wider uses of the space. With spring and summer approaching, they are also planning even more community events. To see what is coming up and help the fundraising efforts to restore St Mary's, please visit their website here: https://stmarysoxted.uk/
-Team Claire