Liverpool named UK’s most generous city following response to Southport incident

Liverpool has been officially recognised as the UK’s most generous city of 2024.

Liverpool was recognised as the UK’s most generous city by GoFundMe, following the extraordinary response to the tragic Southport stabbings and the violent unrest that followed.

In July, a devastating attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance club in Southport claimed the lives of three young girls: Alice Dasilva Aguiar (9), Bebe King (6), and Elsie Dot Stancombe (7). The heartbreaking incident shook communities across the nation, and the following unrest brought further devastation.

Yet, in true Scouse spirit, people came together to raise over £1.3 million on GoFundMe to support those affected.

One of the standout fundraising efforts came from Spellow Community Hub and Library in Walton, which was tragically set alight during the unrest. The library, a cherished community resource, reopened its doors in December thanks to a campaign set up by Alex McCormick, 27, from Netherton.

Initially setting a target of £500 to replace the books that had been lost, Alex’s GoFundMe campaign touched hearts far and wide, ultimately raising an incredible £250,000.

Alex told the PA news agency:

“As a Scouser, I’m not surprised to see Liverpool top GoFundMe’s list. I know we get a bad rep sometimes in the press, but if you live here, you know the people in this city will do anything for anyone.

“It’s nice that it’s acknowledged, but I wouldn’t expect anything less from the city. It’s about being human, seeing something wrong, and wanting to do something to make it right.”

Liverpool’s generosity is a testament to the city’s commitment to helping those in need.

This year’s recognition is based on GoFundMe donations per capita.

On Wednesday, 11 December, more than 135 libraries around the country lit up to celebrate the reopening of Spellow Library.

From Lancashire and Newcastle to Southampton, Cornwall and even the Isle of Wight, libraries lit up in solidarity and shared photographs of it on their social media platforms using the hashtag #ShareTheLight.

The top 10 most generous cities in the UK for 2024 are:

1. Liverpool
2. London
3. Norwich
4. Manchester
5. Belfast
6. Cambridge
7. Worcester
8. Eastbourne
9. Newcastle-Upon-Tyne
10. Lincoln

Being awarded the UK’s most generous city is a reminder of Liverpool’s resilience and unwavering community spirit, proving we are a place like no other!

Find out more about Spellow Library and Community Hub here.

Find out the latest in Liverpool here.