How should heritage be funded? What are the opportunities and challenges around public, private and philanthropic funding models? These are some of the key questions underpinning the 2024 Heritage Debate. This year the The Historic Environment Forum worked in partnership with The Heritage Alliance to produce a series of case studies which will contribute to the debate – sharing different models of funding heritage, as well as a diversity of views on the subject.
Tony Mossman
What type of funding has been effective in supporting your work?
We received a small grant to help with developing our project and then a substantial grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) to help cover the cost of the project. However, this was around the time that Covid struck, and the cost of capital works increased greatly, and we had to split the project into two phases. The NLHF were unable to increase their grant, and we completed phase one in late 2023. We also received a refund of VAT under the Listed Places of Worship (LWOP) reclaim scheme.
Part of our agreement with the NLHF included arranging a series of activities aimed at all ages to promote the heritage of our church and its architect; there were 33 activities held during the two-year project period. Other funding came from our parish funds together with help from our Diocese.
What setbacks have you experienced related to funding?
When seeking funding from other bodies we had discussions with one funding source but, unfortunately, they were unable to help. During our project planning our Diocese appointed a Grants Officer but he had no success in finding other funding.
What solutions are required to address funding challenges in heritage?
A directory of funding organisations with details of the type of projects they will support would be helpful.
Continuation of the LPOW reclaim scheme is essential otherwise the timescale of future projects is likely to be extended causing delays to urgent projects.
Consider engaging a professional fundraiser. Share the experiences of successful project organisers.
