‘Lifeline’ North Devon charity launches emergency appeal for its survival

A North Devon charity which has become a vital hub for marginalised people and families is at risk of closing unless it can raise £20,000 urgently to plug a funding shortfall.

Sunrise Diversity, which supports people from ethnically diverse backgrounds, migrants, refugees and LGBTQ+ communities, has launched an urgent online appeal to raise enough money to keep it going until more funding kicks in next year.

The charity, which has been at the heart of community inclusion for nearly a decade, faces a short-term funding gap due to a difficult funding climate and unexpected pressures over the last year.

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While Sunrise Diversity has secured the confidence of the National Lottery and other funders into 2026, immediate core costs — rent, wages, equipment and reserves — are under threat unless more money can be raised.

Above: Students in class to learn English at the Sunrise Community Hub. Credit: Sunrise Diversity

Despite some huge financial challenges, the charity says demand for its services have never been higher.

From providing English classes (ESOL) and LGBTQ+ peer support to advocacy for families in crisis and grassroots diversity training, Sunrise has become a vital hub for marginalised communities across North Devon and Torridge.

Sunrise Diversity CEO Ana Lodge said: “We are proud of the impact Sunrise has made in building inclusion and tackling discrimination across North Devon.

“This appeal is urgent, but it is also about hope — with our community’s help, we can bridge this gap and continue building a brighter, fairer future.”

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People who have used the Sunrises services have described the charity as a ‘lifeline’. Following an exit interview last year, one client said: “Sunrise will forever be in our hearts, with all the help, guidance and support from day one. We wouldn’t be where we are now without Sunrise.”

An ESOL attendee and volunteer added: “I learned not only the language, but also met beautiful people… I feel that I am not alone anymore, we are a big family here.”

The appeal runs throughout September and donations will directly pay for core services and community support.

If you would like to donate, please visit https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/sunrise-diversity-emergency-appeal

Above: A group of ESOL students on a trip to Northam Burrows facilitated by the team at Finding Nature's Footprints at North Devon Council. Credit: Sunrise Diversity