1 in 3 young people are lonely

Youth loneliness is widespread, but not widely understood.

'Belong' is a UK-wide programme led by the Co-op Foundation, helping young people beat loneliness through co-operative action.

We're building a network of projects that help young people make stronger connections in their community. By working together, the partners in our network are contributing to local and national impact.

Collectively, we aim to:

  • Connect and empower 5,000 young people to take action to tackle loneliness
  • Strengthen local youth services that provide vital support and opportunities
  • Start a national conversation that breaks down the stigma about youth loneliness

Find out more about youth loneliness and the projects in our network.

Take a look

Support our work

Help us tackle youth loneliness.

If you're a member of the Co-op, you can help tackle youth loneliness by making the Co-op Foundation your chosen cause to receive 1% of what you spend on Co-op products.

Select your cause

You can also donate directly or raise funds for our work.

Donate now
The Foundation was set up by the Co-op with an endowment fund that covers our day-to-day running costs, so 100% of what you give will go directly to our community projects."

Co-op Foundation

We are the Co-op's charity. We help disadvantaged communities work together to make things better.

What we've achieved so far

Our Impact 2018

Loans for community spaces

How to apply

Get in touch

For general enquiries, email foundation@coop.co.uk. If you have a media enquiry, email andy.mortimer@coop.co.uk or call 07702 603516.

Our new Welsh community spaces fund is now open for organisations looking to help local people and benefit the environment.