Foreword

Introduction from the Lady Mayor

The Lord Mayor’s Appeal’s strategic aim is to create A Better City for All that is Inclusive, Healthy, Skilled and Fair. Through collaboration, generosity and shared purpose, we continue to deliver lasting impact across the Square Mile and beyond.

In 2025, our partnerships with Homewards and MQ Mental Health Research continue to make a significant difference. Homewards, launched by Prince William and The Royal Foundation, is demonstrating that homelessness is not inevitable but solvable by empowering local communities to develop lasting solutions. MQ Mental Health Research remains at the forefront of pioneering studies to better understand, treat and ultimately prevent mental illness, helping to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

I’m a passionate believer in opening up the City for all. I call it Unsquaring the Square Mile. By breaking down barriers, we can create opportunities for everyone, regardless of background, to benefit from what the City has to offer.

That is why alongside our established initiatives Power of Inclusion, This is Me, We Can Be and City Giving Day, The Lord Mayor’s Appeal is proud to support two new partners in 2025/26 that focus on wellbeing and social mobility in London:

- Combined Cadet Force (CCF) is a youth organisation helping young people aged 12 to 18 build confidence, teamwork and leadership through practical learning and vocational training. It develops real-world skills valued by employers, strengthens social mobility and inspires young people to achieve their potential.

- West Ham United Foundation's Foundry is a new community hub in the heart of East London. It delivers programmes in education, employment, health, youth engagement, and of course, football. With spaces for training, wellbeing, entrepreneurship and a community kitchen, the Foundry aims to inspire better futures and forge stronger communities.

Through these partnerships and our ongoing initiatives, The Lord Mayor’s Appeal will continue to connect business, community and philanthropy to build a City that is truly inclusive, healthy, skilled and fair.

Finally, the Trustees and I would like to express our heartfelt thanks to our corporate partners, livery companies and individuals whose commitment and generosity make this work possible. Together, we are Unsquaring the Square Mile and creating a City where everyone can thrive.

Alderwoman Dame Susan Langley DBE 
The Rt Hon The Lady Mayor of the City of London