King Charles will protect “faith within the multi-faith nation”, according to a new definition of the monarch’s role. 

The notable addition to the King’s title appeared in the Sovereign Grant report 2025-26, the annual review of the Royal Family’s finances, published this week. 

“His Majesty is Supreme Governor of the Church of England and protects the space for faith within the multi-faith nation”, Buckingham Palace states under the “official duties of the sovereign”. 

Reflecting the role of the established church, previous reports have described the King as “Head of the Church of England and Defender of the Faith”.

As part of his commitment to religious dialogue, the report states that “His Majesty also has a special role in bringing communities and faiths together, engaging with them across the regions and nations of the UK”. This is to foster “a sense of pride, continuity and stability, whilst strengthening the UK’s social fabric and cohesion”, according to Buckingham Palace. 

Queen Elizabeth II’s title was described in reports as “Supreme Governor of the Church of England”. 

King Charles will also provide “pastoral support to our Armed Forces”, a change to previous wording of being “Head of the Armed Forces” as seen under the late queen. 

In 2022, the King told faith leaders he felt a “duty to protect the diversity of our country, including by protecting the space for faith itself and its practise through the religions, cultures, traditions and beliefs to which our hearts and minds direct us as individuals.”