## Surge in Crime Threatens Historic Churches Across Britain
A concerning rise in criminal activity is placing churches throughout the United Kingdom at risk, a new investigation reveals. The Countryside Alliance’s recent findings highlight a significant increase in crimes committed at churches and religious premises, demanding urgent action to safeguard these vital community hubs.
Between 2022 and 2024, over 9,000 incidents were recorded across the nation, averaging more than eight crimes each day. This figure may be even higher as data from eleven out of forty-five police forces remains unavailable.
The devastating impact of these crimes was starkly illustrated at St Helen’s Ancient Parish Church in Bilton-in-Ainsty, North Yorkshire, where theft of lead roofing resulted in substantial financial losses and extensive water damage. Six items were also stolen, including a cherished historic pewter flask deemed irreplaceable.
Speaking anonymously due to fears of reprisal, a church volunteer conveyed the deep financial strain these incidents inflict: “Financially, it just brings churches to their knees. It’s hard enough now for churches to survive with dwindling congregations and ageing populations. Churches don’t get any government money; there is no statutory funding available.”
The Countryside Alliance’s investigation, part of an ongoing campaign to secure increased funding and attention for rural churches, analyzed data obtained through Freedom of Information requests sent to all UK police forces.
Here’s a breakdown of the reported crimes:
* 9,148 total records
* 179 instances of lead and metal theft
* 3,758 thefts and burglaries
* 3,237 incidents involving criminal damage, vandalism, and arson
* 1,974 cases of violence or assault
West Yorkshire was the hardest-hit region with 1,121 crimes reported, followed by Kent (655) and Greater Manchester (642).
Mo Metcalf-Fisher, Director of External Affairs at the Countryside Alliance emphasized the need for a unified response: “We need everybody to stand together on this; it doesn’t matter if you’re a person of faith or not. These buildings are so important to our country and they form the fabric of rural life.”
Highlighting the vulnerability of these locations, Tim Passmore, Chair of the National Rural Crime Network and Police and Crime Commissioner for Suffolk stated: “We are so isolated [in rural areas], very remote, and churches are very often the focal point of communities. The Home Office funding formula really pays scant recognition of the challenges facing rural communities.”
Recognizing the issue, Assistant Chief Constable Rachel Nolan, National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Heritage Crime asserted: “Stealing from, or damaging any places of worship… is abhorrent. We are committed to tackling this issue…”
Mark Harrison, Head of Heritage Crime at Historic England added: “Significant progress has been made tackling heritage crime, but there is more that can be done.”
The Church of England acknowledges the crucial role churches play in their communities and provides guidance on security measures available on its website. Ecclesiastical Insurance, a specialist insurer for churches, reports a concerning trend of targeted thefts including silver, cash, statues, artwork, furniture, and even paving stones. They encourage vigilance and recommend secure storage solutions and community involvement.
To support these vital institutions, authorities urge the public to report any suspicious activity at religious buildings through online channels, via 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers.
For more information on protecting heritage sites, visit Heritage Watch.
