The Guardian has launched its 2025 charity appeal with a clear and urgent mission: to support grassroots organisations that are actively repairing the UK's frayed social fabric and countering the alarming rise of far-right and anti-migrant politics.
The Roots of Division and the Grassroots Response
Years of austerity, the ongoing cost of living crisis, and chronic underinvestment have disproportionately damaged both the physical infrastructure and social cohesion of many British towns and neighbourhoods. In areas where people feel disheartened about living standards and disenchanted with democratic politics, grievances can easily take root and be exploited.
The appeal argues that while polarisation is often fuelled by the divisive nature of social media, real-world connections are the antidote. The five partner charities in this year's campaign are dedicated to building these vital bridges through direct, local action.
Meet the Charities Mending Communities
Each of the selected partners brings a unique approach to fostering hope and cooperation.
Locality advocates for a network of 2,000 local community organisations, ensuring smaller, bottom-up initiatives are not overshadowed. A prime example they support is Back on the Map, a pioneering community housing provider in Sunderland that has regenerated a declining area for the benefit of residents, not property developers.
Citizens UK will use funds to train community organisers who harness local power to develop similar transformative projects.
In the north of England, two innovative groups are leading the way. The Linking Network works to break down divisions that keep children living in separate community silos, while Who is Your Neighbour? promotes conversations focused on conflict resolution.
Completing the set is the Hope Unlimited Charitable Trust, which provides grants to groups that directly counter hostility towards migrants and replace grievance with hope.
A Sector Under Pressure Seeking Renewal
The charity sector itself has faced immense strain since the 2008 financial crisis and subsequent Conservative austerity policies. As local authority services were stripped back, the voluntary sector was expected to fill the growing gaps.
While Labour's initiatives like Pride in Place and adjustments to council funding aim to redistribute resources to poorer areas, the editorial notes that more profound reform of local government finance is critically needed. This is especially true given the unsustainable burdens placed on councils by central government failures in social care and special educational needs.
These charities are not a substitute for properly funded public services or accountable politicians, but they play an irreplaceable role in knitting communities back together. The appeal has already raised more than £500,000, demonstrating significant public support for this grassroots work.
The Guardian encourages readers to contribute to the 2025 appeal, reinforcing the message that hope and social repair are possible through collective effort and generosity.
