In Cornwall, 80% of churches are pre-1550. From the Trust’s foundation document it was recognized that: "The churches are still there, still praying through the storms and the rains. We must not let down the past which has loved and cared for them". The charity's essential task is to support these historic buildings but also give help to churches built after this period. By “church” we mean any church, chapel or other building currently being used for public worship.

From the outset the Cornwall Historic Churches Trust’s priority has been to raise money and publicise the urgency of the need to make our churches weather-tight, but not to neglect the need to protect any artistic work. Its funds are applied for "the preservation and maintenance, improvement, upkeep, beautification and reconstruction of churches in Cornwall and of monuments, fittings, fixtures, stained glass, furniture, ornaments and chattels in churches and churchyards".

The Trust has limited capital and resources and its work can only continue and be effective through the continuing generosity and support of both the people of Cornwall, and the many kind and benevolent friends and family from beyond its borders who share the love of this county and its Christian heritage.

Become a Friend of the Cornish Historic Churches Trust and join a friendly community, enjoy sociable fund-raising events and learn from unique educational activities; your membership will directly support our work.

Visit our Friends page for more information.

If you would like to donate, you are welcome to do so via Give.net.

Do you need our help?

If you are associated with a church in need of restoration or repair (of any denomination) then look at our Grants section.  Here you can see a list of the previous grants made by the charity since 2007. At the moment, our top grant is £5,000, or £10,000 for churches who are Church Friends. If in the first instance, you would like to talk things over, then contact our grants Secretary, Jeremy Sharp, using the Get in Touch tab.