In a heartening display of generosity and compassion, Guardian readers have rallied to raise over £750,000 for the 2025 Guardian charity appeal. The funds will support five inspiring grassroots organisations that are working tirelessly to unite divided communities, promote tolerance, and tackle racism and hatred.
The appeal, launched in December, comes against the backdrop of a troubling rise in extremist violence, anti-migrant rhetoric, and the resurgence of “1970s-style racism” across the UK. However, the Guardian’s “Hope” campaign aims to provide a powerful antidote to these divisive forces, shining a light on the remarkable efforts of community and faith groups to foster empathy, build trust, and drive positive change.
One of the partner charities, Citizens UK, has been lauded for its work in Liverpool, where the local Muslim community came together with thousands of others to confront a threatened racist attack on a refugee support centre in the wake of the Southport riots in 2024. “There was a sense of relief, solidarity, hope,” said Dr Badr Abdullah, the chair of Liverpool Muslim Society. “We had seen a big rise of hate, but [then] we saw a big rise of love.”
The other charities featured in the appeal – the Linking Network, Locality, Hope Unlimited Charitable Trust, and Who Is Your Neighbour? – are all tackling the issues that matter most to their local communities, from affordable housing and youth services to art projects and food banks. Their work is making a tangible difference in the lives of those they serve.
Rory Carroll, the Guardian’s Ireland correspondent, highlighted the transformative impact of the Circle of Change project run by Locality member 174 Trust in Belfast, which holds monthly social gatherings to unite people across race, class, and faith. “It restored my hope,” participant Maureen Hamblin told Rory. “It humanised us all.”
The Guardian’s readers have clearly been moved by the stories of these inspiring organisations, with one donor writing: “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, the chief executive of Locality, expressed his gratitude for the generosity of the Guardian’s supporters, saying: “When people come together to listen and support each other, that’s when they create opportunities and hope for the future.”
As the UK grapples with the divisive forces of our time, the 2025 Guardian charity appeal stands as a powerful testament to the transformative power of community, empathy, and unity. Through their unwavering support, the newspaper’s readers have helped to amplify the voices of those working tirelessly to build a more inclusive and compassionate society.