St Michael's Byker: A Model for Modern Church Youth and Community Projects
The Lighthouse Project
As we toured the Lighthouse Project site in Byker, set to open to the public next month, it became immediately clear that this was no ordinary church regeneration project. Every aspect of the development reflects a commitment to quality and long-term impact: a modern, inclusive space designed to serve the diverse needs of the local community. From day one, funding has been a key pillar of the project’s success. Watch the video below:
Funding for Modern Churches: What the Lighthouse Project Teaches Us
Led by Chief Executive Ben Roman, a visionary with experience in strategic fundraising, project delivery, and grant writing, the Lighthouse Project secured early investment through a national government grant. This initial funding laid the foundation for exciting designs and plans, leading to further support from grant makers, local council initiatives, and partnerships with socially minded business leaders.
Interest in the project has been driven by the team’s powerful storytelling and passion for making a difference in the local community. This is highlighted in this short, heartfelt video. Watch the video below.
What Makes a Successful Grant Application for Church and Youth Projects?
For churches looking to secure grant funding for youth work, church planting, or community space regeneration, The Lighthouse Project offers some top tips:
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Respond to community need - The Lighthouse Project began with listening, identifying gaps in provision for young people and families in Byker, an area that struggles with high levels of deprivation.
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Build the right leadership team - From active trustees with local connections, to a developer and construction team with a great reputation, The Lighthouse Project brought together specialists who could see the project through from an initial idea to an incredible community hub.
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Secure early investment - Government funding kickstarted the process, giving the community project credibility and momentum. Showing how one grant can open doors to others.
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Collaboration is key - partnering with funders, the local council, and local business leaders created a shared sense of ownership and helped align the project with local priorities.
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Tell a story that inspires - Through digital storytelling and creative partnerships with filmmakers and photographers, and by amplifying the voices of young people in the area, the project captured the hearts and minds of its community.
Youth Projects, Community Partnerships, and the Power of Purpose-Built Spaces
This project isn’t just about renovating a church building, it’s about redefining what church buildings can mean today. It shows how churches can become catalysts for local renewal, particularly when spaces are designed for young people and multigenerational community use.
Built into The Lighthouse Project is a key principle: no child will ever feel they’re getting second best. From top-spec youth zones, e-sports, and a football arena to dedicated on-site support services, a community café, youth work and office space, and even a woodland trail - every aspect has been developed with input from the young people and community it’s there to serve.
A unique and heart-warming element of the project is Otis the dog, a gentle, highly trained, and affectionate companion who will become a permanent presence at St Michael’s Church. Trained in specialist support techniques, Otis will be free to roam the space, offering calm, comfort, and non-judgmental companionship to visitors of all ages. His presence embodies the Lighthouse’s trauma-informed and welcoming approach to community care.
Whether you're exploring grants for community projects, modernising church spaces, or delivering ambitious youth work in disadvantaged communities, The Lighthouse Project offers a blueprint for transformational initiatives. It’s clear, bold and community driven vision, combined with great leadership and brilliant partnerships, is a recipe for success.
Want to explore funding for your own church or youth project? Discover how Benefact Trust can help.
Visit our Community Impact Grant
Looking for similar funding opportunities? Search Government Grants
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