Wakefield's St Helen’s Church launches £290,000 appeal for greener, warmer future
A historic Wakefield church is appealing for donations as it looks to raise £290,000 for major green improvements aimed at securing the building’s future for generations to come.
St Helen’s Church in Sandal has launched its “Give Light, Get Warm” campaign to help transform the church into a warmer, more energy-efficient and sustainable community space.
The church says its current heating system is no longer fit for purpose, leaving the building cold during winter months, difficult to heat efficiently and increasingly costly to run.
Reverend Lizzy Brothwood said: “Our current heating system is no longer fit for purpose, leaving the space inefficient to run and unwelcoming during colder months. This not only impacts those who gather here, but also increases our environmental footprint.
“St Helen’s is more than a building. It is a place of worship, prayer, welcome, community, and history. Through this project we hope to preserve our heritage, care for creation, and ensure our church remains a place of light and warmth for all who enter.”
The fundraising campaign has been split into two phases, with the first focusing on the installation of a modern infrared heating and lighting system at an estimated cost of £214,000.
Church leaders say the technology would provide direct radiant heat where it is needed most, improving comfort for worshippers and visitors while reducing wasted energy.
Unlike traditional heating systems, it is designed to warm people and spaces more efficiently rather than heating the entire building.
Similar systems have already been installed in historic churches and cathedrals across the country.
The second phase would involve installing heritage-sensitive solar panels at a cost of around £50,000.
Organisers say the panels would be carefully designed to complement the historic character of the church while helping generate renewable energy and support the Church of England’s Net Zero 2030 targets.
The overall £290,000 target also includes a 10 per cent contingency fund to ensure the project can be delivered in full.
Supporters say the improvements will help secure the long-term future of the building, ensuring it remains a usable, welcoming space for worship, community events and local gatherings.
Donations can be made through the church’s GoFundMe page.