Dear reader,

You may already know that the Guardian’s independent, high-impact journalism is powered by its readers around the globe. You might have been asked to support us in the past and you may have even supported us. But do you know why we ask for your support?

The Guardian isn't owned by a billionaire media mogul or shareholders who need to see profits. In fact, Guardian Media Group has one just shareholder: the Scott Trust.

The trust exists solely to secure the financial and editorial independence of the Guardian in perpetuity. This leaves us free to pursue the truth with no outside influence.

We have not put up a paywall on our website, while the majority of our competitors have. We did this so that everyone, wherever they are, has access to news about the world around them. We believe that information equality is vital to a thriving democracy.

In 2020, a turning point in the escalating climate crisis, we stopped accepting advertising revenue from fossil fuel companies. Then, in 2023, we made the decision to no longer take advertising revenues from gambling companies. Because of our unique ownership model we are free to make these choices – but it does mean that we have taken a hit in advertising revenue.

Because of this, the support we receive from our readers is more vital than ever.

We understand that times are tight. If you can afford to give even a little, we would be so grateful. It only takes a moment.

Thank you,

The Guardian