Christian leaders in Scotland have expressed deep concern after the UK Government confirmed the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme (LPWGS) will end this month, warning the move could put historic churches at risk.
The scheme allowed congregations to reclaim 20% VAT on essential repairs to listed buildings.
The Church of Scotland, which owns more than 1,100 listed churches and halls, has said many of its 19th and 20th century buildings already face mounting repair costs due to ageing infrastructure and more severe weather.
Rt Rev Rosie Frew, Moderator of the General Assembly, said: "We were surprised to learn, via a press release, that LPWGS is being closed at the end of the month and very disappointed that this decision was taken without informing religious denominations in Scotland.
"The UK Government announced a replacement grant scheme for England only at the end of January and the UK Government appears not to have informed the Scottish Government prior to this unexpected announcement.
"We are seeking urgent clarification and assurances that money will continue to be made available in Scotland to fund essential repairs to listed church buildings.
"We have no idea what the implications are for the Barnett Formula, where devolved governments receive a proportion of funding when the UK Government spends money for England."
Church leaders said the sudden withdrawal of support will “severely affect community efforts to fix roofs, maintain aging heating systems and hold back damp”, adding that many churches are not only places of worship but vital hubs for foodbanks, youth work and support for the elderly.
John Keenan, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, warned the impact would be significant.
“The closure of the LPWGS will have a massive impact on larger projects being carried out on Catholic churches across Scotland,” he said, adding that one diocese alone expects to lose more than £100,000 a year for routine maintenance.
Leaders have urged the Government to clarify what replacement funding, if any, will be made available for Scotland.