Nugent is delighted to launch the Good Shepherd Appeal 2026, inviting schools, parishes and communities across the Archdiocese of Liverpool to unite in faith, generosity and service. This year’s appeal centres on the powerful theme “Love the Neighbour”, calling us to live out Christ’s command to care for one another, especially the most vulnerable in our midst.

Rooted in the values of Catholic Social Teaching and inspired by the Good Shepherd who seeks, protects and nurtures each one of us, the appeal encourages everyone from schools to parish communities to put their faith into action through compassion, prayer and practical support.

A call to compassionate action

The Good Shepherd Appeal is one of Nugent’s longest standing and most cherished appeals. For generations, schools and parishes across the archdiocese have stood alongside Nugent to support any of our neighbours facing difficulty.
In 2025, the kindness of schools, pupils, and teachers helped Nugent provide food and essentials to families and individuals in crisis. We provided funding for furniture, hygiene products, school uniforms and respite breaks. The 2026 appeal aims to build upon this important work at a time when many in our local neighbourhoods continue to face financial pressure, loneliness, and hardship.
 
‘Love the Neighbour’

This year’s theme, Love the Neighbour, invites our communities to reflect deeply on who their neighbour is, and how even the smallest act of kindness can bring hope, dignity and joy.

Schools across the archdiocese are encouraged to take part through fundraising, social action projects, themed assemblies, reflective prayers and class challenges that celebrate the importance of caring for others and getting to know our neighbours. Parishes are invited to support the appeal through special collections, community activities, and holding the people Nugent serves in their prayers.
Good Shepherd celebration services.

We will be holding two services in 2026 to celebrate the Good Shepherd Appeal. The first will take place on 25 June starting at 10:30am at the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral and will be led by Archbishop Sherrington. The second will take place on 30 June starting at 2pm at St Mary’s Church in Leyland and will be led by Father Joe Bibby.

A message from Nugent 

Joanne Dobbie, Caritas and Community Engagement Manager at Nugent, said:
“The Good Shepherd Appeal reminds us that when we choose to love our neighbour, we are choosing to walk in the footsteps of Christ. Year after year, our young people astonish us with their generosity of spirit and their commitment to helping those who are struggling. In 2026, we hope even more schools and parishes will join us as we continue to build communities rooted in compassion, hope and love.”

Why your support matters

Funds raised through the appeal directly support Nugent’s work, including:

• Food pantries and crisis support for families experiencing hardship
• Support for care experienced children and young people
• Community projects that strengthen relationships and build belonging

Each contribution, large or small, helps Nugent continue offering life-changing support to those who need it most.

Get involved

Schools, parishes and individuals can access all Good Shepherd Appeal 2026 resources at: www.wearenugent.org
Or contact: fundraising@wearenugent.org
0151 261 2000