The Coalition was formed in 2020 in recognition of the enormous pressures impacting British society – first the division and polarisation that arose from years of debate about Brexit, then the loss of life and enormous hardship created by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Since then, the cost of living crisis and economic uncertainty have only added to the feeling of exhaustion we all share from living through such extraordinary times – and events like the Israel/Gaza conflict are showing that there challenges to our social cohesion will keep coming.

But we were also inspired by how despite the suffering caused by Covid-19, through the worst of the pandemic communities came together, and families, friends and neighbours looked out for one another in a way that moved us all.

From the quiet acts of individual kindness to the celebrated dedication of our key workers, we were all reminded of the power of kinder, more connected communities.

Our mission is to foster and support this spirit, to better face the challenges ahead and help narrow some of the divisions which have characterised our recent past. That doesn’t mean there won’t be profound differences, but we want to see a society where people are connected with their community and feel a part of it.

One in which increased contact builds deeper relationships and enhanced understanding, especially of those we previously saw as different.

One where connecting ideas, events and institutions underpin our communities and help us tackle loneliness and prejudice.

Where our increased connections improve our well-being, our health and our social capital. And where our communities are equipped to face the challenges that lie ahead.

We aim to help build kinder, closer and more connected communities to face the challenges that lie ahead – /together.