Posted on: 15th July 2025

In our diocese there was a high level of interest in the Disability Project Parish Grants Scheme, which is part of the Church of England Disability Project. The project aims to remove barriers that deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people face within the church. 

The Parish Grants Scheme is divided into two streams: Small projects (up to £5,000) and Large projects (up to £50,000). The Large project funding stream is now closed, but the small stream remains open.

Christ Church Upper Armley were one of the parishes to secure a large grant of £50,000 to improve their accessibility. Plans include putting in a platform lift, along with adapting all internal doors, as well as improving the disabled toilet. A second phase of works involve improving the external ramp access.

The Revd Phil Arnold, Vicar of Upper Armley, said: “This will be a game changer for us. Over seven days, some 500 people use the building and improving accessibility will make us a more welcoming, inclusive church.”

Click here to find out more about this grant.