This is an annual programme with the 2026 deadline being 30 March.
Grants of up to £500 are available to local groups or organisations in the UK that wish to place Christian books and DVDs in community places such as public libraries, schools, hospitals, hospices, prisons or churches in the UK or overseas.
Books must be able to be borrowed by a wide readership and cannot be used for personal gifts or for resale.
The books and DVDs must be selected from the list on the Speaking Volumes website. The list contains many subjects and genres.
When awarding grants, the following priorities apply:
First priority
public and prison libraries, refuges, hostels, care homes and other libraries where there is great need. Grants are normally for up to £500.
Second priority
- All schools including playgroups and nurseries, and
- Repeat applications where book turnover is high such as prisons and women's refuges.
In general, grants of up to £300 are available to further education colleges and secondary schools, up to £250 is available to primary schools and foreign schools, and up to £100 for pre-schools. Grants of up to £200 are available for care homes and hospices.
Third priority
- Libraries in churches
- Toddler groups, and
- Placements abroad
The application process is as follows:
- Applications must be made online via the Speaking Volumes website.
- Applicants are required to pre-select books and complete the application form and then wait to hear from the Trust.
- Successful applicants can then obtain their books and DVDs from their nearest Christian bookshop. No money is required, as the bookshops will directly invoice the Trust.
- Following this, each grant recipient should send evidence of the books being used (either photo or a letter of acknowledgement). They will also be required to respond to a survey that will be sent a year later.
Please note that grants are normally awarded on a “first come” basis. Eligible organisations interested in applying to the scheme are therefore advised to apply as soon as possible.