Liverpool has been recognized as the UK’s most generous city for 2024, according to findings from GoFundMe, following its commendable response to the tragic events surrounding the Southport stabbings. The announcement was made amid acknowledgment of the extraordinary efforts of the local community, which rallied together after the devastating attack.
On July 29, 2024, the small seaside town of Southport witnessed a horrifying incident when three young girls—Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, Bebe King, six, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven—were fatally stabbed during what was supposed to be a fun Taylor Swift-themed dance event. This tragedy not only shook the immediate community but also reverberated throughout the nation.
Following this incident, violence broke out across various parts of England, leading to protests and riots, with the first occurring right there in Southport. The unrest caused significant damage, including to the Spellow Community Hub and Library, which was intentionally set on fire, destroying much of its interior and damaging its collection of books.
Despite the chaos, Liverpool's response to the crisis was overwhelmingly positive. The community and supporters raised over £1.3 million on GoFundMe to support the victims’ families and to aid those affected by the riots. The fundraising campaign was significant not just for the funds raised, but for the spirit of solidarity it represented.
Among the remarkable stories during this period of community support is Alex McCormick, 27, from Netherton, Merseyside. Distressed by images of the library engulfed in flames, McCormick launched her own GoFundMe campaign with the goal of raising just £500 to replace the lost books. To her astonishment, the campaign soared, eventually amassing £250,000.
Reflecting on her experience, McCormick stated, "I know we get a bad rep sometimes in the press, but I think if you live here or you have lived here, the people in this city will do anything for anyone" (reported by PA news agency). She expressed pride at the generous outpouring of support, noting how it highlighted the resilience and kindness of the St. John’s community. "It’s about being human, seeing something wrong, and wanting to do something to make it right," she added.
The Spellow Community Hub and Library officially reopened its doors on December 11, 2024, to celebrate not just the resurgence of the beloved resource but also the unwavering community spirit. An impressive light parade marked the occasion, with hundreds participating. Libraries across the country lit up as part of the celebration under the hashtag #ShareTheLight, showcasing solidarity with Liverpool.
Queen Elizabeth herself touched upon the significance of the reopening, stating, "The library’s return demonstrated the power of ‘kindness in the face of adversity.’” The funds raised through McCormick’s campaign will go toward enhancing the library's offerings, providing more activities for children and making improvements to serve the local community more effectively.
GoFundMe has released data showing Liverpool's position at the top of the list of the UK’s ten most generous cities, ranked by donations per capita. The breakdown is as follows: Liverpool ranks first, followed by London, Norwich, Manchester, and Belfast. The achievement stands as a beacon of hope and resilience for the city, showcasing its commitment to caring for its residents and those affected by tragedy.
Being awarded the title of the UK’s most generous city is not just about numbers; it speaks volumes about the heart of Liverpool—a community bound by kindness, empathy, and unwavering support, reflecting what it means to stand together during the hardest of times.
This recognition, following such tragic events, reaffirms Liverpool's reputation as not just the most generous city, but as one where people will come together to strive for the common good, exemplifying the spirit of community and humanity.
