We believe in the power of community to change lives

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Church Urban Fund is a national charity working with local leaders, churches and other faith groups all over England. Our local partners are committed to serving and strengthening the community where they live.

We are working to build just and flourishing communities so that everyone across England can access support when they need it most. Read on to learn about our vision, mission, and impact.

What we do - together

We work with and invest in people, churches and community groups to tackle urgent issues, provide life-changing support and raise money. Explore our key areas of focus.

Our Impact

Read our latest report showing how, with your support, we are making progress towards our strategic objectives.

How we can support you and your community

Access our free programmes, events, tools and research to help you put your faith into action

Our vision

A future where everyone in England can access a community of support when they need it most.

Our mission

To tackle complex challenges like poverty and exclusion across England by mobilising people, churches, and whole communities to make a positive difference.

Our local approach

We understand that local people know their communities best, so we make sure local skills and knowledge are amplified and valued in everything we do. We work with and invest in local people, churches and community groups to tackle urgent issues, provide life-changing support and raise money.

Our Christian values

As a Christian organisation, we are motivated by a vision of the world as God intends it to be. We are passionate about building communities where material needs are met and everyone feels connected, valued, and loved.

Our work is guided by the following theological principles:

  • We are drawn by the vision of a world as God intends it to be.
  • We are driven by the biblical cry for righteousness, justice and peace.
  • We are directed by Christ’s example to prioritise those experiencing injustice, poverty and inequality.

How we understand poverty

Nearly 40 years ago Church Urban Fund was one of the first organisations to support local, faith-based responses to urban poverty – and we have been equipping churches and transforming communities ever since.

Poverty extends far beyond lack of financial resources. When people cannot afford essential needs like heating and food, it can be daunting to seek help. This can lead to a sense of isolation and disconnection, leaving individuals questioning their sense of belonging.

It can be helpful to imagine poverty as a web of interconnected challenges that significantly impact an individual’s or a community’s ability to thrive. This includes poverty of identity, poverty of resources and poverty of relationships.

The web of poverty >>

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