Sarah Champion welcomes funding boost for Hopian in Rotherham to strengthen community cohesion

-  Hopian in Rotherham awarded government funding to help bring people together and bridge divides

- Part of over £2 million investment supporting more than 200 grassroots organisations across England

- Funding will help strengthen unity, trust and opportunity within local communities

Sarah Champion, Member of Parliament for Rotherham has welcomed new government funding awarded to Hopian recognising its vital work in bringing people together and strengthening community ties locally.

The organisation is among 212 recipients of the Common Ground Award, which is providing over £2 million to grassroots groups across England working to build connections between people from different backgrounds, foster trust, and create stronger, more resilient communities.

The funding will support Hopian to expand their reach in order to help those affected by domestic abuse and child sexual exploitation, helping more people across Rotherham to connect and participate in community life.

This investment is designed to back local organisations that are tackling division, social isolation and the pressures facing communities, including the rising cost of living. Projects funded range from community hubs and kitchens to sports, cycling, gardening and cultural initiatives.

Sarah Champion said:

“I am delighted that Hopian has secured this funding. Their work plays a vital role across Rotherham; giving hope, support, creating opportunities and strengthening our community. I’m really proud that the Government is again recognising and rewarding the good practice that happens in our town. This investment will help Hopian reach even more people and continue making a real difference locally.”

Minister for Communities, Miatta Fahnbulleh, said:

"I've seen first-hand the extraordinary work being done up and down the country to bring people together - creating spaces where new friendships form and communities grow stronger.

This funding backs those organisations to keep doing what they do best: building the bridges that help people find their common ground, forge new bonds, and make their communities more resilient as a result."

The Common Ground Award forms part of the government’s wider commitment to empowering communities, alongside the Pride in Place programme, which is investing £5.8 billion in neighbourhoods across the UK. Both initiatives contribute to the government’s Protecting What Matters strategy, aimed at fostering a more cohesive and united society.

ENDS