Lord Mayor elect selects York Cares as official charity for the year

Posted on Wednesday 1 April 2026

York Cares is a social action charity, based at the University of York, which inspires employers, employees and communities to tackle key social issues together.

Heartwarming

While the civic party typically selects up to four charities to support each year, York Cares has been given the unique distinction of being the sole official charity.

Cllr Wells said: “I came across York Cares during my last year in office and I was touched by the work that the team do right across the city, the charity delivers a direct benefit to the residents particularly those more isolated and the stories truly are heartwarming.”

The University was one of the three founding members of the charity back in 2005, which  has been a fixture of social action in the City for over two decades.

Community

Staff contribute to community projects run by York Cares to address community needs, including the Big Community Challenge, and students benefit from access to the Work Wardrobe, which provides them with free, professional clothing for interviews or work placements.

Leanne Shaw, York Cares Operations Manager, highlighted the impact the charity achieved in 2025:

• 2,055 employee-volunteers engaged.
• 10,250 hours dedicated to the city (the equivalent of 3.5 years of continuous work).
• 37 green sites improved.
• 3,000 pupils inspired through educational outreach.
• 4,800 items donated to local community organisations.

Leanne said: "York Cares is a charity with York at its heart. The charity has been committed to making the City a better place through social action for over 20 years. 

“Through our programmes, we improve urban green spaces; inspire young people to reach their full potential and combat loneliness and social isolation.”

Awareness

Cllr Margaret Wells will take on the role of Lord Mayor again from Thursday 21 May 2026 for 12 months having previously held the position between May 2024 and May 2025. 

The Lord Mayor’s endorsement will allow fundraising and networking events to take place over the year to help raise vital funds and raise awareness.