Providing even the most simple kitchen facility at a place of worship can make a big difference to the range of events that can successfully be held in a building. There are few user groups who wouldn’t welcome the opportunity to at least serve teas and coffees.

When considering the provision of kitchen facilities you need to be aware that there is a big change in the standard of facilities required by legislation if you intend to prepare food on the premises (as opposed to serving food which was prepared elsewhere) on anything other than a very occasional basis.

Whilst basic food hygiene must be adhered to in all cases, food preparation for the public requires wipeable surfaces throughout.  This is often interpreted as stainless steel, but other options are available.  Action for Communities in Cumbria's Village Halls Advisor can provide advice on kitchens for public buildings.

The cost of providing a kitchen of an appropriate standard for food preparation will be significantly higher, but may be worth the investment.  This is an issue that should be considered at the business planning stage.

Photographs showing examples of kitchens in churches can be found here.

Click here to see a case study of the interior reordering, including a new kitchen area at Ulverston Parish Church.