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Three quarters believe stealing from churches symptomatic of moral decline

A new survey by YouGov, commissioned by church insurer Ecclesiastical, has revealed that two thirds of the general public, regardless of whether they are Christian or attend church, would be concerned if their local church fell into disrepair.

40% feel that their local church is an important part of their community’s history and heritage – again regardless of whether they attend it or not.

Over three quarters of those surveyed believe that stealing from churches is indicative of declining moral standards and values in society.

People found guilty of damaging, vandalising or stealing from places of worship should face harsher sentences than those found guilty of damaging non-religious places, said 31%.

If someone was seen attacking a church 24% would shout or approach them and 86% would call the police. However, only 7% believe that the police are effective in preventing or solving crimes against churches.

Head of church insurance at Ecclesiastical, John Coates, said: "These results prove that church buildings are important for all members of the community, not just those who worship there regularly. A church creates a sense of place and gives a community a degree of identity.

"However, even though people value their local church they are not necessarily motivated to help protect it. Churches can quickly become vulnerable and isolated, even if they are in busy suburban areas, if local people do not value and look out for them. This opens the door for vandals, arsonists and thieves.

"But if we all take a little more responsibility for protecting our local churches, we can be assured that they will continue to be an important part of our communities now and in the future."

Full story at Ecclesiastical.