When a priest retires he is no longer in active ministry, but he is still a priest of the diocese. The Retired Priests' Fund provides for his housing, his health, and his day-to-day needs through retirement.

What the Fund covers

• Housing. A home for priests who have spent their working lives in presbyteries that belong to the parish, not to them.
• Healthcare and nursing. Medical costs, and residential or nursing care where a priest needs it in later life.
• Day-to-day living. A modest income for ordinary costs, on top of the basic state provision.
• Pastoral and practical support. Help with travel, and keeping retired clergy connected to the life of the diocese.

Why it matters

Most priests serve the diocese for forty or fifty years on a stipend that is deliberately modest. They do not build up large pensions. Their retirement is what we provide for them in return for a life given to the altar. The Fund is how we do it.

Ways to give

• Online. Give to the Fund through the diocesan giving page, and add Gift Aid if you pay UK tax.
• Standing order or cheque. Ask the Planned Giving Office for a mandate, or send a cheque payable to Retired Priests' Fund to Planned Giving and Gift Aid Service, Diocese of Shrewsbury, Curial Offices, 2 Park Road South, Prenton, Wirral CH43 4UX.
• Annual collection. Most parishes hold a retiring collection for the Fund once a year. Cash on the day cannot be Gift Aided unless it is given through a Gift Aid envelope.
• Legacy. A gift in your will can be directed to the Retired Priests' Fund. See the Leaving a Legacy guide for the wording.

Get in touch

For the Fund's leaflet, a Gift Aid declaration, or a standing order form, use the Planned Giving Office contact listed below.