Memorial Grant Scheme

Aims/priorities: The Memorial Grant Scheme is a VAT reclaim scheme which means the funding is intended to cover the costs of VAT already paid.

The funding is intended for registered charities or faith groups excepted from registering as a charity to help with the cost of works like repairing and cleaning public memorials or installing a new memorial. 

The memorial can commemorate a person/people, an animal/s or event/s.

The funding can only be provided for works that have already taken place. It cannot be used for future works. Part-funding is available for ongoing work for parts of the work which have been completed.

Who can apply? Registered charities and faith groups excepted from registering as a charity can apply. 

To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Be able to provide evidence of their legal status.
  • Have an authorised bank or building society account.

 Charities and faith groups who are not registered for VAT can apply for funding on any VAT charged for eligible costs.

Grant amount: Between £500 and £1,000 are available.

The scheme provides approximately £400,000 of funding in each financial year, which is distributed on a quarterly basis (every three months). In the financial year, the quarters are usually April to June (quarter 1), July to September (quarter 2), October to December (quarter 3) and January to March (quarter 4).The scheme has a budget for each quarter, but the amount distributed each quarter can vary, depending on the value of eligible claims received.

If the total value of eligible claims is higher than the available quarterly budget, a pro rata (proportional) payment amount will be given to each eligible claim. For example, each successful applicant may receive 75% of the amount they applied for. This means that each eligible application receives funding, and the amount available is shared fairly across all eligible claims.

The maximum grant available is the full rate of VAT (20% of project costs).

Application process: The guidance notes, the online application form, and a PDF version of the application form can be found on the GOV.UK website.

Deadline: Tuesday 31 December 2024.

Contact information: Email: grants@lpwscheme.org.uk

Website: Applying for a memorial grant - GOV.UK