The APR Bursary Scheme
In 2013, APR launched the Bursary Fund to help and encourage more people to go on retreat, regardless of their financial circumstances. To this day we continue to support dozens of retreatants each year.
We rely on APR Member Retreat Houses to promote the availability of this assistance, and we also hope that clergy and other ministers will highlight this support to those considering making a retreat, but who might be prevented from doing so for financial reasons
How Does it work?
Applications must be made through one of our member retreat houses, who can apply for up to 50% of the costs of an individual guest’s retreat (up to a maximum of £150).
We have not set specific qualifying criteria, believing that retreat houses will be best placed to know when individuals are in genuine need which might prevent them from participating in a quiet day or retreat. However, please note that due due to the popularity of the scheme, individuals may apply no more than once every other year.
In order to apply, please invite the APR member house to submit a Bursary Fund Application Form on your behalf, which must be received at least 10 days before the start of the retreat.
Upon receipt of an application, the Trustees will make a decision within one week. If approved, payment will be arranged as soon as the house confirms that the beneficiary has arrived at or completed their retreat.
Support the Bursary
The success of the Bursary Fund depends on your continuing support. If you would like to contribute to the Bursary Fund, and help even more people go on retreat this year, please make a donation to the Bursary Fund.
Further Information
Member Houses can submit applications for up to FIVE individual retreatants in any one financial year (1 April – 31 March).
However, if they wish to make an additional donation to the Bursary Fund, the APR will consider more applications from that house, up to the value of their donation. For more information please read our Bursary Fund Terms and Conditions.
Applicants with disabilities, who need a full-time carer to accompany them in order to make their retreat, may be eligible for support on a ‘Two-for-One’ basis.
We also welcome one application each year from trainee Spiritual Directors, through their (diocesan) training courses. Please contact the APR Administrator for details.