Our story

For over 135 years, we‘ve provided specialist insurance backed by in-house underwriting, claims and risk management teams who have a best-in-class reputation for providing specialist expertise, guidance and support.

Originally founded in 1887 as the Ecclesiastical Buildings Fire Office to protect Anglican churches and church buildings against the risk of fire, the name Ecclesiastical has stayed with us as we’ve grown.

Today we offer insurance across a broad range of specialisms, including faith, charity, heritage, education and real estate across Ireland, Canada and the UK.

We’re proud of our reputation as one of the most trusted insurers¹ in our markets, and of the positive impact we make on society, by giving back our available profits to churches, charities and other good causes.

You can find out more about Ecclesiastical and what makes us a different kind of business in our brochure.

Download the brochure

We are proud to be part of the Benefact Group – a charity owned, international family of financial services companies that exist to donate available profits to good causes. We’re built on the idea that better business, can better lives.

Each business in our group is a specialist in its field. We’re united by a shared ambition to have a lasting positive impact on the communities we support, which has made us one of the largest corporate donors in the UK².

As businesses we are distinct, and when we come together as a group, we are stronger. By doing business and working with us, our customers, clients and partners make a vital contribution to transforming lives and communities.

And together, we are building a Movement for Good.

Learn more about Benefact Group

¹ Voted best insurer for charity, heritage and education by brokers for 15 years running. 2008-2022 Broker Research by FWD.

² DSC – The guide to UK Company Giving 2023-24