Paul Hamlyn Foundation – Youth Fund

The Paul Hamlyn Foundation’s (PHF’s) mission is to “help people overcome disadvantage and lack of opportunity, so that they can realise their potential and enjoy fulfilling and creative lives”. The Foundation places particular focus on supporting both young people and the arts.

One of the largest independent grant-making foundations in the UK, PHF’s current focus is on arts, education and learning, migration and young people.

In addition to funds that can be applied for, PHF has ‘invitation-only’ funds. Information for these can be found on the PHF website.

The funding is for:

Organisations working with young people (14–25 years).
Targeted work with and for young people who face transitions in their lives which may be challenging or create barriers for example into or out of education, care settings, housing or the secure estate, which might include prisons, bail accommodation, youth detention accommodation and approved premises.
Work that recognizes young people’s multiple and overlapping identities (for example race, gender, sexual orientation, class, faith, migration status, ability).

There is particular interest in applications from organisations led by people most impacted by racism, ableism, classism, sexism, xenophobia, homophobia, and/or transphobia.

Grants of up to £150,000 spread over three years with a maximum of £50,000 per year.

PHF expects to make around 20 awards per year. On average between 10% and 12% of all applicants receive funding.

A pre-application bursary of up to £750 is available to help groups apply.

Applications are accepted from organisations that:

Are not-for-profit, such as charities, community organisations, social enterprises and not-for-profit companies.
Work primarily: at least 50% of the organisation’s focus is on work with and for young people aged 14-25.
Work in the UK.
Work at either local, regional or national levels, or at more than one level.
Provide direct services and/or second-tier support.
Have an income between £30,000 and £3.5 million.

London based organisations can apply but should be aware that the fund is more competitive for them. Priority is likely to be given to those outside London unless they are developing work which is unlikely to be found elsewhere or which will have an influence or impact beyond London.

The next Youth Fund Q&A will take place on 23 January 2025 (10:30 to 11:30 am). Registration is required for the Zoom session and this can be done via the Paul Hamlyn Foundation website.

There are no deadlines. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Full details…