Communities across the UK to stand together in solidarity against hate

Groups of people all over the UK will be standing together in solidarity against hate this week. More than 350 communities across the UK are staging hundreds of events this week in a nationwide pushback against rising division, including turning skate parks and shopping centres into "public living rooms." From disco dances to plant swaps, arts sessions to shared meals, thousands of people are taking part in A Million Acts of Hope , a week of action running from May 13–20 aimed at celebrating unity and everyday kindness. The campaign launches as a new survey of 4,144 people, conducted by FocalData between 21 and 24 April 2026, reveals that nearly two thirds (65%) of Brits say their local community is peaceful and friendly — despite headlines often suggesting the country is deeply divided. In Swindon, more than 25 events are planned across the week. They include fully furnished living rooms set up in outdoor spaces across the town and complete with sofas, coffee tables, plants, and board games. The pop-up lounges will appear in a skate park, a community garden, a park, and even inside the shopping centre, inviting passers-by to sit down with strangers and share a cup of tea. Terry Johnson, Inclusion, Collaboration and Community Development Manager for Voluntary Action Swindon, said the idea is simple but powerful. "Too often we hear that our communities are divided. But that's not my experience of living and working in Swindon," he said. "I know there are loads of really good things happening here, despite what we're being told. That's why I wanted to get behind this campaign — to show the very real connections and comradery that happen every day." He added that anyone can "just turn up" and join in. "Connecting over a cup of tea may seem small but it is a significant and important act of hope," he said. "I'm looking forward to hearing about all the friendships and support that grow here through the week of action, because I know there is more that unites us than divides us." Across the country, other events include intergenerational dance parties, community art sessions and food-sharing events celebrating different cultures. The campaign is backed by more than 200 charities, including homelessness charity Crisis, learning disability charity Mencap, food bank network Trussell and refugee support coalition Together With Refugees. "In my work and across our communities, I see people stepping up to welcome others every day, opening their homes, volunteering their time, and speaking out in support of refugees," said Jehangir Malik, Interim Director of Together With Refugees. "We know that division and hate do not represent who we are, either as communities or as a country. Yet too often, these acts of compassion go unseen, making it easier for the rhetoric of hate to take hold." Malik added that now is the time to focus on what unites us — to find common ground and "shine a light on the millions of small but meaningful acts of solidarity and hope happening in every community, in every corner of the country, every day." Matt Downie, Chief Executive of Crisis, said: "The voices of hate and division can be loud and give the impression that Britain is hopelessly fractured. But working at Crisis and in the homelessness sector, that's not what I see. I see kind and committed people in communities up and down the country looking out for each other. "From the small actions — stopping for a chat or offering a hot drink to someone who is homeless — to the hundreds of people who give up their Christmases to help run some of our services," he said. "It can be hard to be hopeful in changing and uncertain times and when day-to-day living costs continue to rise. Despite these pressures, there are so many quiet acts of kindness and resilience to celebrate and give us reason to be optimistic — and that's what A Million Acts of Hope is all about." Polly Jones, Director of Communities at Trussell, said food banks see community spirit daily. "Every single day, we see people showing up for one another — donating, volunteering and standing alongside their neighbours when it matters most," she said. Jon Sparkes OBE, Chief Executive of learning disability charity Mencap, said inclusion "is built through action, not words alone." "Across the country today, we see acts of hope that reflect our history and point to the future we're still building," he said. "From community dance classes to volunteering friendships and shared community spaces, actions may seem small, but they can help transform lives. When we choose hope over hate, we create communities where people with a learning disability are seen, heard and valued." Organisers say more than 60,000 people have already signed what they describe as the UK’s biggest ever "thank you card," recognising the people who brighten their communities. Anyone looking to support can find out more at millionactsofhope.org.