Pots of Gold

Name:

Jack Petchey Foundation

Contact details:

Exchange House, 13-14 Clements Court, Clements Lane, Ilford,
Essex IG1 2QY, tel: 020 8252 8000
www.jackpetcheyfoundation.org.uk

What is it?

The foundation was set up by businessman Jack Petchey in 1999 with the aim of helping young people take advantage of opportunities and play their full part in society.

Who runs it?

Grants are approved by a board of trustees and foundation director Andrew Billington.

How much money does it give away?

£13m since 1999. More than £3m was given out in project grants last year.

How big is each grant?

Project grants are normally between £500 and £50,000

Who or what is the money intended for?

Originally set up to fund projects for young people aged between 11 and 25 in east London and west Essex, the foundation has now expanded into north London and plans to cover all 33 London boroughs by 2007.

What kind of projects are eligible?

The foundation supports projects that:

• Promote involvement and personal responsibility within society.
  
• Assist young people to overcome problems such as addiction, homelessness and ill health.
  
• Develop self-esteem through involvement in sport and other worthwhile activities.
  
• Help train youth leaders.
  
• Tackle the problems faced by young people from ethnic minorities.
  
• Can show “match funding” or demonstrable support from those involved with the organisation.

Who can apply?

Registered charities or groups with charitable purposes working with young people aged 11 to 25. Youth clubs, schools and groups that are not registered as a charity may also apply but will have to submit extra details about their constitution.

How do I apply?

Application forms can be downloaded from www.jackpetcheyfoundation.org.uk

When should I apply?

There is no deadline. Applications are considered at a trustees’ meeting once a month.

How long does the process take?

“Once we have received your documentation, we may then want to meet up with you to discuss the project further and get a few more details,” says grants manager Stephen Corriette.

“On average the process takes about six to eight weeks.”

How will the Foundation monitor our performance?

“Every project that obtains funding from the foundation is required to submit a report after nine months,” says Corriette. “We will also make regular visits during which we will be looking for real evidence on how the project is benefiting young people.”