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First Steps to Community Ownership | New Futures: Former Places of Worship
A general workshop on the first steps to take when bringing a church into community ownership - part of COSS's New Futures Programme.
Date and time: to
Location: Online
Organisation: Development Trusts Association Scotland
This event is part of the New Futures Programme – Former Places of Worship event series. New Futures is a three-year programme (January 2025-December 2027) funded by National Lottery Heritage Fund, Historic Environment Scotland and Development Trusts Association Scotland to provide enhanced support to community groups considering taking on a former place of worship across Scotland.
This programme was launched in direct response to the significant and unprecedented number of former places of worship which 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 an overview of the first steps to take, and the information needed to help communities make an informed decision. From getting started, to understanding the processes of the Church of Scotland, to building a fuller picture of the support that’s available, this session will provide key information and share examples of how communities have done it before.
Workshop content:
- Getting started
- Steps to success- good governance, some practicalities of managing a historic building, and ensuring viability and sustainability
- Expectations of the Church of Scotland
- Tools and resources
- Accessing support
- Case studies
What will I gain from this event?
- An understanding of steps you need to take to set up as a community organisation.
- An understanding of what the Church of Scotland expects, what to expect of the Church, and who to contact to enquire about purchasing a former church building.
- 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 group interested in taking ownership of a former place of worship but will be of most help to those at the beginning of the process.
Where is this event taking place?
This event is taking place online.
Do I have to pay to attend?
This is a free event.
