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We are an independent funder working to help people overcome disadvantage and lack of opportunity, so that they can realise their potential and enjoy fulfilling and creative lives.

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@phf_uk: RT @MaxRutherford_: This brilliant list from @ian_mcl (updated frequently) summarises more than 100 #COVID19 grant funding initiatives acro… 3 days ago
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Offering our support: COVID-19

We understand the challenges that the organisations and people we fund may be facing in the context of COVID-19, and we want to be as supportive as we can be.

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Mission and values

Our founder, Paul Hamlyn (1926–2001), believed in a fair society in which people could achieve their potential, free from prejudice and disadvantage. He wanted people to access, enjoy and benefit from the arts, and he wanted to improve opportunities and life chances for young people. He was also a risk-taker, who built his success on developing new approaches to overcoming challenges.

Reflecting these values, our strategic priorities show the areas where we want to help organisations and individuals effect change. Select an area to see how we can support you.

Our strategic priorities

Nurturing ideas and people

We want to support imaginative people to nurture exciting ideas

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Arts access and participation

We want to widen access and participation in the arts

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Education & learning through the arts

We want to improve people's education and learning through the arts

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Arts Evidence

We want to show that the arts make a difference to people's lives

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Investing in young people

We want to support the development and growth of organisations investing in young people

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Migration and integration

We want to support young people who migrate, and strengthen integration so that communities can live well together

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How to apply for funding

Information to help guide you to the fund(s) that best match your aims.

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Work we've funded

Find out who we have supported in your region and area of interest with our searchable grants database

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Our work in India

We support NGOs in India working in development sectors including health, education, women's and children's rights, political representation and local governance.

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Top stories

Read the latest blogs, articles, news and publications from Paul Hamlyn Foundation

News | 13 Mar 2020

Offering our support: COVID-19

We understand the challenges that many of the organisations and people we fund may be facing in the context of COVID-19, and we want to be as supportive as we can be. If you are awaiting a payment from us, please be reassured that our processes will ensure these go ahead as scheduled. If you are concerned about meeting any of your reporting requirements, please get in touch - we will...

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News | 16 Jan 2020

Act for Change Fund awards grants totalling £2.1 million to...

Twenty-four organisations working with young people who are taking action to challenge social injustice have received grants totalling £2,134,000 through Act for Change Fund, a £3.6 million partnership for organisations supporting young people working for change. A joint initiative between Paul Hamlyn Foundation and Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, matched by the #iwill Fund, Act for Change...

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News | 28 Nov 2019

Backbone Fund – Supporting a thriving voluntary sector

Today we announced grants totalling £1.2 million to six organisations in the latest round of the Backbone Fund. The aim of the funding is to champion the vital role that these organisations play in building resilience within the sectors in which PHF has an interest. The Fund is unrestricted and makes a lasting commitment of up to £50,000 annually for five years to each organisation. The...

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News | 13 Nov 2019

Meet the recipients of Awards for Artists 2019

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Awards for Artists. 300 guests from across the arts and cultural sector joined us for a celebration at LSO St. Luke’s, and to hear Jane Hamlyn and Joanna MacGregor reveal the 2019 recipients of Awards for Artists: Recipients of Awards for Artists 2019. Left to right: Larry Achiampong,...

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