Resources

Where to begin

Your church, your community was developed in partnership with Heritage Trust Network and Historic Churches Scotland and was published in 2023.
Your church, your community

For an explanation of the broader context of church disposals in Scotland, and some examples of how communities are responding, read the Autumn 2025 Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland Magazine article on the New Futures programme, written by Harry Whitmore, Churches Advisor. AHSS Article – Autumn 2025 – New Futures Programme

What’s the church of Scotland’s official position?
Church of Scotland General Trustees Guidance Document

---

How do you bring an asset into your ownership

Route maps – acquiring your church
Most places of worship will be acquired through a negotiated sale with the owner (typically the Church), however the Community Right to Buy process may also be appropriate.
Negotiated Sale Route Map
Community Right to Buy Route Map

---

Funding

Scottish Land Fund
Architectural Heritage Fund
National Lottery Heritage Fund
Historic Environment Scotland
Democratic Finance Scotland

---

Faith Based Groups

If you are a faith-based group looking to purchase a church building for the purpose of worship, check out the following:
National Churches Trust
Scotland’s Churches Trust