Our history
Since 1987, we have supported exceptional people and organisations to advance social justice. Find out more about the history of the foundation.
At Paul Hamlyn Foundation, we work collaboratively with organisations and individuals who are working to build a just society.
Paul Hamlyn arrived in the UK as a migrant in 1933. He started his first book selling business in 1949 and went on to make his fortune in publishing. When he died in 2001, he left most of his estate to the Foundation, creating one of the largest independent grant-making organisations in the UK.
Since 1987, we have supported exceptional people and organisations to advance social justice. Find out more about the history of the foundation.
Our work began with the publisher and philanthropist, Paul Hamlyn, who started the foundation. Find out more about Paul’s life and legacy.
Our mission is to be an effective and independent funder, using all our resources to create opportunities and support social change. We partner with inspiring organisations and individuals to put them at the heart of leading change and designing solutions to overcome inequality.
Our vision for the future is a just society in which everyone, especially young people, can realise their full potential and enjoy fulfilling and creative lives.
‘The grant has given us the security to be able to think and work strategically, rather than constantly reacting from moment to moment … It’s allowed us to actually invest in our political education programme and plan for more long-term themes that we want to explore.’
Mona Bani, Managing Director of Revoke, funded through our Migration Fund
We believe in the power of working together to achieve a greater impact.
Trust is at the heart of strong relationships.
Openness is key to building trust and enabling collaboration.
Every decision we take has an impact on someone, so we strive to think about others with kindness.
Find out more about our funds and our funding principles.