This event is part of DTAS’s New Futures Programme – Former Places of Worship event series. New Futures is a three-year programme funded by National Lottery Heritage Fund, Historic Environment Scotland and Development Trusts Association Scotland (DTAS) to provide enhanced support to community groups considering taking on a church across Scotland. This is in direct response to the significant and unprecedented number of former places of worship that are due for disposal over the next several years.
Event description
In response to the number of churches across Scotland due for disposal in the coming years, many communities have been left wondering what they can do to keep these buildings at the centre of community life. This workshop gives communities exploring how they might play a role in the future of their places of worship an overview of the first steps to take, and the information they need to make an informed choice. From getting started, to the practicalities of managing an historic building, to the support that’s available, we will provide key information and share examples of how communities have done it before.
Workshop content
Getting started
Steps to success- Good governance, Practicalities of managing a historic building, Ensuring viability and sustainability
Tools and resources
Accessing support
Case Studies
Hosted by: Audrey Dunn, Churches Advisor, COSS; and Claire Martin, Churches Advisor, COSS.
Guest Speaker
Andrew Aldous, Facilities Management Advisor, COSS.
What will I gain from this event?
An understanding of what you need to do to set up as a community organisation.
An understanding of what is involved in taking on a historic church building and what you need to consider for its care and management.
Knowledge of the support and guidance available to help steer you through the process of taking a historic church into community ownership and securing its long term future as a community asset.
Who is this event for?
This workshop is open to any community organisation interested in taking ownership of a former place of worship.
Where is this event taking place?
This event is taking place online.
Do I have to pay to attend?
This is a free event.
For questions and enquiries, please email Harry Whitmore, Churches Programme Officer at: harry@dtascot.org.uk
New Futures - Former Places of Worship is delivered by Community Ownership Support Service with funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Historic Environment