WELCOME TO THE FRIENDS OF DORSET CHURCHES

The Friends of Dorset Churches supports the work of Dorset Historic Churches Trust, which is an independent non-denominational charitable trust (Registered Charity Number 282790).  It raises money for the repair of Dorset churches and chapels that are open for Christian worship by offering grants and interest free loans.  In addition, the Trust fosters a greater interest, understanding and involvement by all members of the community.

The Trust receives no direct financial support from the Diocese, local authority or English Heritage and therefore relies entirely on the generosity of many people.  Careful husbanding of its capital funds, the Annual Bike Ride and private donations have made it possible to assist less well off churches with a total of about £100,000 per year.

Many of the churches in Dorset were built or extensively enlarged during the Victorian period with little regard for the cost of maintenance or the ability to pay for it should the congregation shrink in size.  Many churches are now in real difficulty because of this and the fact that the very skilled craftsmen required are both disproportionately expensive and scarce.

The friends of Dorset Churches play a vital part in the work of the Trust. 

Please join us.

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