About us

Built by community. Driven by purpose.

Founded in 2012, the The Patchwork Foundation is a UK charity dedicated to strengthening democracy by engaging underrepresented communities, particularly young people.

The Patchwork Foundation equips young people with the skills, confidence, and experience needed to participate actively in democracy and wider civil society. We believe democracy is strongest when it reflects a broad range of voices, and that greater confidence and opportunity lead to greater participation and representation.

Our mission is to promote the positive integration of disadvantaged and minority communities into British democracy and civil society. We are politically independent and do not support any particular party or ideology, but work with mainstream political parties and democratic institutions to encourage wider civic and political participation.

Our core beliefs

Democracy is a force for good and politics is the greatest way to deliver change.
Young people have the potential to shape the present and define the future.
The quality of decision-making depends on the experiences that inform it.
Change only exists when it is real, measurable and felt

Our values

COURAGE: We have the courage to stand up and speak; to sit down and listen; and to do what is right, not what is easy.

EMPATHY: We always do our best to stand in someone else’s shoes; feel with their heart; and see through their eyes.

OPENNESS: We are receptive to and respectful of new ideas and ways of thinking, even if they challenge our own.

CURIOSITY: We are constantly questioning and learning as we always seek to better understand the world around us.

COLLABORATION: We always work together because we know that alone we can do so little, while together we can do so much.

The Patchwork Foundation strengthens democracy by increasing civic participation and improving representation for underrepresented communities, particularly young people.

Who we are

We are a UK charity built by community, driving young people from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds into the heart of British democracy.

Our impact

Since 2012 we have helped hundreds of young people progress into public service, shaping a democracy that reflects the communities it serves.

Our people

Meet the trustees, alumni and team who bring lived experience and everyday commitment to strengthening UK democracy.

FAQs

Answers to common questions about our programmes, eligibility and how to get involved with the Patchwork Foundation.

Alumni Spotlight

“As a former Patchworker who learnt about the inner sanctums of politics through a Masterclass several years ago, it’s very special to now use some of that knowledge to help guide my journey as a Member of Parliament. Getting involved in a Patchwork Masterclass and a visit to No10 played an important part of me realising that I could have a seat at the table, and that the political world was open to me too. I’m now determined to pay that forward to ensure that the young people of today have the confidence, the knowledge and the insights to be the politicians of tomorrow.”