We tackle the issues people tell us they care about
We believe that everyone in the UK should experience the power of participation to shape a just and inclusive future. Our projects drive better prospects, a fair shift to a greener planet, and empowered places.

Prospects
We drive a fairer future through collaboration between communities, businesses and policymakers.
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Planet
We support policy change, action and local participation for a socially just transition to net zero.
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Place
We work in UK places, bringing people, businesses and influencers together for locally-led social, civic and political change.
Find out moreLatest news and views

A huge thank you and a fond farewell to CEO Helen Goulden
Helen Goulden OBE to step down as Chief Executive of The Young Foundation in September 2025, following a transformative and inspiring eight-year tenure.
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East London and Essex communities to help shape Thames Freeport
Collaborative project brings organisations and communities together to create a great place to live and work today, and in decades to come.
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Only a third of Brits think the government would support them to recover after a crisis
Following the UK government’s Resilience Action Plan, our latest data explores Brits’ attitudes towards crisis preparedness and response.
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£6m project will drive academic evidence in public policymaking
£5.9m-programme will champion and strengthen evidence-informed policymaking
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Knowledge in action
A practical exploration of how universities, councils and communities can collaborate to tackle complex local policy challenges together.
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‘A true tool for empowerment’
Senior Researcher Amelia Clayton shares how the Pushing Boundaries conference was shaped and informed by its Accountability Group.
6/6Pushing Boundaries: a conference for community-driven research and innovation
On 10 June 2025, UKRI and The Young Foundation brought together pioneers who are transforming research and innovation through community-driven approaches.
The conference explored how communities are reshaping what research and innovation can be. Some of the panel sessions are now available to watch.
Explore content from the conference