The Guardian's 2025 Hope appeal has surpassed a significant milestone, raising more than £800,000 in donations from its readers. The funds are being directed to five inspirational grassroots charities that work to promote tolerance and combat division across the United Kingdom.
Charities at the Heart of Community Building
The appeal, which is now in its final few days, supports five key organisations: Citizens UK, the Linking Network, Locality, Hope Unlimited Charitable Trust, and Who is Your Neighbour?. These groups deliver practical projects designed to foster empathy and build trust in local communities, addressing issues ranging from affordable housing and youth clubs to food banks and arts initiatives.
Matthew Bolton, Chief Executive of Citizens UK, expressed gratitude: "From the thousands of Citizens UK community leaders and staff across the country, a warm thank you to the Guardian readers for your support. Every pound given strengthens our shared capacity to make change and build bridges across communities."
Spotlight on Grassroots Impact
The appeal's focus on local, practical action has resonated strongly with donors. One supporter commented via email, highlighting the critical need to "rebuild community links and cohesion" in the face of hate and division which make communities less safe. Another praised the appeal as "inspired," noting that grassroots organisations are "the most powerful tool we have to fight … hate and ignorance."
Guardian journalism has showcased the charities' work in detail. Features have included Rory Carroll on a cross-community project in Belfast, Sally Weale on the Linking Network's school-linking programme, Lucy Knight on a Jewish-Muslim food kitchen, and Sam Wollaston on Citizens UK's Walk of Hope. A film by Taj Ali highlighted Locality member Back on the Map's work reviving a Sunderland neighbourhood after riots.
The Power of Connection: Schools Bridging Divides
A standout initiative is run by the Linking Network, which brings together primary schools separated by ethnicity and geography. The network stated that its project "gives children the chance to see beyond the boundaries of their own experience. When they meet, share stories and learn together, they build empathy and understanding that lasts a lifetime." This work is seen as vital in countering a backdrop of extremist rhetoric and what has been described as a resurgence of "1970s-style racism."
The collective effort supported by the Hope appeal underscores a growing public commitment to fostering solidarity and shared values, proving that hope and practical action can provide a powerful counter-narrative to division.
