Security
Closed churches
Taking a proactive approach to managing unoccupied churches can help preserve these buildings for future use.
Keeping your church open and welcoming
04 July 2018
At Ecclesiastical, we want to encourage churches to unlock their visitor potential! We are often asked whether churches should be kept locked at all times. Our answer is no, provided the right precautions have been taken.
Advice for churches
Where appropriate, we recommend that churches are kept open because of the positive effect that it can have on security. We support the Church of England Cathedral and Church Buildings Council’s drive to help churches be “Always Welcome” - and we suggest you take a look at their top ten tips for encouraging church visitors as a starting point.
Of course, security can still be a concern; one solution can be found in these articles by Joanna Booth, Consultant on Open Churches about Preston ChurchWatch.
Tips for being open and secure
- Churches wanting to be open need to find the right balance between accessibility and security. This means taking a few key steps:
- Carry out a full risk assessment
- Ensure local residents know that the church is operating an open door policy so that they can observe activity
- Encourage local people to pop into the church while passing by
- Draw up a rota of volunteer stewards to be present in church - but don’t forget to consider their personal safety if, for example, they might be alone in a church at any time
- Create a secure storage area in which all valuables can be locked.
Will being open affect insurance premiums?
There is no impact on the church insurance premiums if a church is open during daylight hours and proper risk assessments have been completed.
If you have any concerns speak with our customer services team on 0345 777 3322.