The Guardian's annual charity appeal has concluded by raising a remarkable sum of more than £1 million to support organisations working on the frontline against social division and hatred in the United Kingdom.
Generosity Fuelling Grassroots Change
Now in its eleventh year, the Hope appeal officially closed last Thursday, having secured £1,035,000 inclusive of estimated Gift Aid. The funds will be shared equally between five partner charities selected for their work in fostering community, tolerance, and empathy. These are: Citizens UK, the Linking Network, Locality, Hope Unlimited Charitable Trust, and Who Is Your Neighbour?.
More than 10,000 readers contributed to the total, with many sending messages of support. One donor wrote, "I'm so glad the Guardian is supporting organisations which bring people together, supporting what is humane and in common amongst us all."
A Direct Response to Rising Tensions
Katharine Viner, the Guardian's editor-in-chief, stated that the appeal's theme of hope was a direct response to concerning trends witnessed over the past year. She highlighted the resurgence of racist abuse, the demonisation of refugees, and the return of far-right marches to British streets as key motivators for the campaign.
"I'm delighted that Guardian readers responded with such generosity, warmth and solidarity," Viner said. "Your donations will make a positive difference, sending a clear message about standing up to hate and bringing people together."
Over a six-week period, the Guardian published features and short films showcasing the vital, practical work of the partner charities. Their initiatives range from creating affordable housing and youth clubs to running arts projects and community food kitchens, all designed to build trust and promote positive local change.
Charities Hail 'Incredible Opportunity'
The beneficiary organisations have expressed profound gratitude for the funds, which will significantly expand their reach and impact.
A spokesperson for The Linking Network, which recently held a schoolchildren's event at Bradford City Hall, said: "Thank you Guardian readers – this incredible opportunity is a chance to engage more children and young people with our work of building more connected communities."
Tony Armstrong, chief executive of Locality, added: "We want to thank readers for their huge generosity. Your donations will help Locality members create resilience, pride and opportunity in some of our most disadvantaged neighbourhoods."
The group Who Is Your Neighbour? stated the donations would allow them to grow their work, deliver training, and "help create more conversations that matter across the country."
Since its inception, the Guardian's annual appeal has now raised more than £16 million for causes addressing issues from refugee support and homelessness to child poverty and the climate crisis, consistently highlighting the indispensable role of the voluntary sector.
