Who we are

Founded in 2012, Patchwork Foundation is a UK-based charity committed to strengthening democracy. We believe that our society is only as good as our democracy — and our democracy is only as great as the range of voices within it.

Since 2013, we have engaged over 800 young people from underrepresented and disadvantaged communities, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and experience needed to participate actively in democracy and wider civil society. We know that increased confidence and self-belief leads to greater participation and realisation — the result is a stronger, more representative country where everyone is encouraged to play their part and society hears and responds to the needs of all.

Our alumni are proof of what is possible. From our community, we have seen 1 MP, 1 Peer, and over 15 local councillors — a proven pathway from the Patchwork Masterclass to elected office. Many more have gone on to stand in elections and take up roles across politics, public affairs, and civil society.

We deliver our work through a range of programmes including the Masterclass Programme, Get Involved, Internships, Party Conference, and the MP of the Year Award Ceremony. This year we are proud to welcome three cohorts, including Weave — our new women’s leadership programme delivered as part of the Masterclass Programme.

Our mission is to promote and encourage the positive integration of underrepresented and disadvantaged communities into British democracy and civil society. We are not affiliated with any political party and do not promote any particular political view. We do, however, work actively to promote mainstream political and social participation, partnering with the main political parties and democratic institutions to support this agenda.

Patchwork Foundation is proud to be patroned by Mr Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, and the Cabinet Secretary, Dame Antonia Romeo DCB.

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.”