In a bid to adapt to the changing landscape of charitable contributions, chaplaincies within the Diocese in Europe are invited to apply to receive a heavily subsided contactless device. The Church of England's Giving Team is working alongside the Diocese in Europe on this project that will see 30 chaplaincies receive these device. 

Making digital giving accessible 

The move comes as many chaplaincies increasingly rely on digital donations. Diocesan Fundraising Adviser, Juliet Evans, is spearheading the initiative, which provides up to 30 heavily subsidised contactless card reader devices for eligible chaplaincies. 

"We want to ensure that chaplaincies are equipped to receive contributions in the way that people find it easiest to give, especially as we see a trend towards a cashless society in many European countries." said Juliet. 

Applications and details 

Chaplaincies are invited to apply for a device between 15 January - 9 February, with a strong recommendation to submit applications early for assistance if required. The application form and project details can be found on the Parish Buying site. 

As well as receiving a card reader device, successful chaplaincies will also benefit from support, training and resources to help them get the most out of contactless giving.  

All applications will be assessed by the Diocese in Europe and the Church of England’s National Giving Team and chaplaincies will be notified of the outcome of their applications on 16 February. The device retails at just under 500 Euros incl. delivery. Successful chaplaincies will be invited to make a contribution of 90 Euros (or Sterling/other local currency equivalent) towards their device. This will go towards funding further devices across the diocese. 

The devices operate in the local currency, ensuring that donations seamlessly flow into the respective chaplaincy bank accounts. Manufactured and shipped from Northern Ireland, these devices aim to avoid potential VAT or customs complications. 

Chaplaincy success 

Chaplaincies that have embraced this digital initiative share positive experiences.  

"We raised almost CHF 9,000 last year through contactless giving, some of which would definitely not have come in through traditional channels," Holy Trinity in Geneva. 

“The churchwardens are impressed how easy it is to operate, and the congregation was impressed by the look and speed of the machine. One of the younger ones told me she never carried cash, so felt very much at home with the machine.” – All Saints, Milan  

Encouraging a Cashless Future 

While some chaplaincies may have hesitated in the past to adopt contactless card reader devices due to costs or technical challenges, the project seeks to alleviate these concerns.  

The Diocese in Europe looks forward to a successful rollout of digital giving, ensuring that chaplaincies remain connected with their communities in an increasingly digital age.