The Guardian's 2025 Hope appeal has successfully raised more than £750,000 from its readers, providing a vital financial boost to five inspirational charities dedicated to uniting divided communities across the United Kingdom.
Charities at the Heart of Community Building
Launched in December, the Hope appeal is funding five key organisations: Citizens UK, the Linking Network, Locality, Hope Unlimited Charitable Trust, and Who Is Your Neighbour?. The campaign was conceived as a direct response to a troubling climate marked by extremist violence, rising anti-migrant rhetoric, and a resurgence of racist attitudes.
All five partner charities deliver practical, on-the-ground projects designed to foster empathy and build trust. Their work spans critical local issues, from creating affordable housing and youth clubs to running arts projects and community food banks.
Liverpool's Response to Hate: A Case Study in Solidarity
A powerful example featured in the appeal's editorial series came from Liverpool, in the wake of the 2024 Southport riots. The report highlighted how community and faith groups rallied in an extraordinary show of solidarity, with thousands gathering to protect a local refugee support centre from a threatened racist attack.
Dr Badr Abdullah, chair of the Liverpool Muslim Society—a member of Citizens UK—described the profound shift. "There was a sense of relief, solidarity, hope. We had seen a big rise of hate, but [then] we saw a big rise of love," he told The Guardian.
Grassroots Impact Across the Nations
The appeal has shone a light on transformative work across the UK. In Belfast, the Circle of Change project run by Locality member 174 Trust holds monthly gatherings to bridge divides of race, class, and faith. Participant Maureen Hamblin said it "restored my hope. It humanised us all."
Other highlights include the work of Back on the Map in Sunderland, revitalising a neighbourhood after far-right riots, and Who Is Your Neighbour?'s pioneering sessions facilitating 'difficult conversations' on race and immigration. A moving account also featured SaSh, a Jewish-Muslim charity food kitchen supported by Hope Unlimited, tackling both hatred and hunger.
The campaign has clearly resonated with the newspaper's audience. One donor commented, "I’m so glad the Guardian is supporting organisations which bring people together, supporting what is humane and in common amongst us all."
Tony Armstrong, chief executive of Locality, expressed gratitude: "We want to thank Guardian readers for their kind donations. When people come together to listen and support each other, that’s when they create opportunities and hope for the future."
