In a world that often feels divided, it’s easy to forget that unity is still alive and well in many parts of the UK. Here are 22 examples of how people across the UK unite in big and small ways, showing that our community spirit is stronger than ever.
1. Standing Against Racism
In response to a week marked by violent race riots and attacks on asylum seekers in July and August 2024, thousands united in a wave of anti-racism protests across the UK, including in cities like Cardiff, Glasgow, and London. These peaceful demonstrations showcased a collective commitment to confront and combat the underlying racism and violence, reinforcing a nationwide stance against hatred.
2. Cheering on Sports Teams
Few things bring the country together like sports. Remember the 2022 UEFA Women’s Euro? England’s victory was a moment of pure joy, uniting fans from all walks of life. Wembley Stadium was packed, and millions more watched from home, proving that sports can be a powerful force for unity.
3. Supporting Healthcare Workers
During the pandemic, the whole country came together to show appreciation for healthcare workers with the weekly “Clap for Carers.” Every Thursday evening, people across the UK stood on their doorsteps, clapping and cheering in a shared moment of gratitude for those on the front lines.
4. Enjoying a Sunny Day
A sunny day in the UK is a rare treat, and when it happens, everyone seems to come together to make the most of it. In July 2022, during a heatwave, parks, beaches, and pub gardens were buzzing with people enjoying the warmth. Bournemouth beach even saw record crowds, proving that a bit of sunshine can bring people together like nothing else.
5. Facing Adversity Together
When Storm Dennis hit in February 2020, communities in South Wales were devastated by flooding. But instead of despairing, locals came together to help with the clean-up, showing the true strength of community support in tough times.
6. Celebrating Cultural Festivals
Cultural festivals like the Notting Hill Carnival are perfect examples of how the UK’s diversity brings people together. In 2023, the carnival returned to its full pre-pandemic scale, drawing over a million people to celebrate Caribbean culture in the heart of London.
7. Joining in on Snow Days
Snow is a rare event, especially in the south of England, but when it happens, it’s a chance for communities to come together. In February 2021, when the “Beast from the East 2” brought snow, kids and adults alike took to the streets for snowball fights and sledding, enjoying the winter wonderland together.
8. Honouring Shared Histories
Remembrance Day is a time when the nation comes together to honour those who served in the armed forces. In November 2023, millions across the UK observed the two-minute silence, showing that, despite our differences, we all share a deep respect for the past.
9. Rallying Against Injustice
In June 2020, after the tragic death of George Floyd in the US, protests against racial injustice spread across the UK. In Bristol, protesters made headlines by toppling the statue of Edward Colston, a slave trader. It was a powerful moment of unity against systemic racism.
10. Community-Led Initiatives
The rise of food banks during challenging times is a testament to the UK’s community spirit. The Trussell Trust, which runs a network of food banks, reported providing nearly 3 million emergency food parcels between April 2022 and March 2023. This ongoing support shows how communities come together to help those in need.
11. Supporting Refugees
In March 2022, thousands of Londoners marched in support of Ukrainian refugees following Russia’s invasion. This demonstration of solidarity was part of a broader movement across the UK to welcome and support those fleeing conflict.
12. Standing With Labour Movements
During the “summer of discontent” in 2022, widespread strikes across various sectors saw strong public backing. People from all walks of life showed their support for fair pay and working conditions, demonstrating that the fight for workers’ rights is something many are willing to unite over.
13. Backing Environmental Causes
The environment is something that concerns us all, and in April 2023, tens of thousands of people gathered in London for “The Big One,” a climate protest organized by Extinction Rebellion. It was a massive show of unity from people all over the UK who care about the planet’s future.
14. Celebrating Local Traditions
Local traditions like the Appleby Horse Fair in Cumbria are a big part of what makes British communities unique. This annual event celebrates Gypsy and Traveller culture, drawing thousands of visitors and reminding us of the rich diversity that exists within the UK.
15. Pub Culture as a Community Anchor
During the COVID-19 lockdowns, pubs had to adapt, but they remained at the heart of their communities. The Red Lion in Cricklade, for example, became a hub for locals, offering takeaway meals and hosting online quiz nights. It’s a great reminder that pubs are about more than just a pint—they’re places where communities come together.
16. Grassroots Movements Thriving
Grassroots movements can have a big impact. In 2023, the “Save Our Trees” campaign in Sheffield successfully stopped the council from cutting down thousands of street trees. It was a victory for the local community and the environment, showing what can be achieved when people unite for a common cause.
17. Digital Activism
Social media has become a powerful tool for activism. The #FreeSchoolMeals campaign, led by footballer Marcus Rashford in 2020, is a prime example. Rashford’s efforts to extend free school meals during holidays for children in need united people across the country and led to real change.
18. Support for the NHS
The NHS is a source of national pride, and in 2022, people across the UK celebrated its 74th birthday by participating in the NHS Big Tea, a fundraising event for NHS charities. It was a small but meaningful way for people to show their appreciation for the healthcare system that cares for them.
19. Enjoying National Events
National events like the Platinum Jubilee in June 2022 are moments when the whole country comes together. The celebrations of Queen Elizabeth II’s 70 years on the throne saw street parties and public gatherings across the UK, reminding us of the shared traditions that unite us.
20. Engaging in Local Governance
More people are getting involved in local governance, and the May 2023 local elections saw higher-than-expected voter turnout in many areas. This shows that people are increasingly engaged in the decisions that affect their communities, which is a positive sign of unity and civic responsibility.
21. Rediscovering Community Spirit
The COVID-19 pandemic may have been tough, but it also brought people closer together. A 2022 survey by the Co-op found that community spirit had increased, with more people knowing their neighbours and feeling a stronger connection to their local area. This sense of community has continued, with people keen to maintain these newfound connections.
22. Joining in Mourning
When tragedy strikes, communities across the UK often come together in mourning. A poignant example is the national response to the murder of Sarah Everard in 2021. Vigils were held in cities and towns across the country as people united in grief and in a collective call for safer streets and justice for women. This shared mourning showed our deep interconnectedness, even in our sorrow.
A Shared Future
These 22 examples show that despite everything, the UK continues to find ways to come together. Whether it’s through standing up for what’s right, enjoying the simple things in life, or supporting each other in tough times, Britons demonstrate that unity is still a powerful force in our society.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Joaquin Corbalan P.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
The images used are for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the actual people or places mentioned in the article.