The Attlee Foundation

Expanding opportunity for all

ABOUT US

The Attlee Foundation continues the social and
progressive work of former Prime Minister Clement Attlee.

Established in 1967 with cross-party support, the Attlee Foundation was founded to benefit people disadvantaged by poverty or lack of opportunity.

Attlee’s government presided over the establishment of the welfare state in Britain, including reforms like the creation of the National Health Service and expansion of social security. More than one survey of academics has voted Attlee the most successful British Prime Minister of all time.

In keeping with Clement Attlee’s vision of a fair, equal and just society, the Foundation commemorates his life and achievements through projects that reflect his enduring values.

Over its 58-year history, the Foundation has evolved significantly. A decade ago, it sat within the Attlee Youth and Community Centre (AYCC) in Tower Hamlets, a multi-purpose community hub originally established with the support of the Attlee Foundation.

Today, the Foundation operates as an independent organisation, with its own governance and programme, while maintaining close and productive links with the AYCC. The AYCC remains an important part of the local community, and the relationship between the two continues to strengthen their shared commitment to young people.

The Foundation’s work now reaches beyond a single site. It supports young people and promotes the values and social ideals associated with Clement Attlee through lectures, bursaries, and public events that bring together people from across the social and political spectrum.

OUR WORK

Supporting young people’s education and ambition through partnerships,
bursaries, and celebrating Clement Attlee’s enduring legacy.

Investing in young people is at the heart of everything we do, just as it was for Clement Attlee, whose life and values were shaped by his early work with families in London’s East End.

In 2022, the Foundation began a partnership with the Attlee A Level Academy in Tower Hamlets to launch the Clement Attlee Students of the Year competition, celebrating originality, independent thought, and insight into Attlee’s enduring legacy.

Building on this success, the Foundation now raises funds for a bursary scheme that provides students from the East End of London who are progressing to tertiary education with a £5,000 grant. In 2024/25, this fundraising effort was supported by a £25,000 grant from the Aldgate and Allhallows Foundation.

By continuing to develop partnerships and raise funds, we are helping young people in East London to build their skills, confidence, and ambitions.

DONATE TO THE FOUNDATION

Support young people’s futures,

please donate today

Each year, we raise funds to provide £5,000 bursaries for disadvantaged students from the East End of London, helping to support their progression to university.

If you are a UK taxpayer, we kindly ask you to complete this Gift Aid form so that we can maximise the value of your donation.

Sort Code: 60-83-01
Account Number: 20458768
Registered Charity Number: 1155133

For more details about donating, or to discuss leaving a legacy to the Foundation, please contact our treasurer.

NEWS AND EVENTS

Keep up to date with the Foundation’s latest projects, partnerships and lectures celebrating the life and legacy of Clement Attlee. From bursary awards and educational collaborations to annual lectures and commemorations, our events highlight how Attlee’s principles continue to inspire new generations.

Clement Attlee and the Birth of the United Nations: An 80-Year Reflection

The Attlee Foundation was honoured to be represented by Jo Roundell Greene at the 80th anniversary commemoration of the inaugural meeting of the United Nations General Assembly , held on Saturday 17 January at Methodist Central Hall Westminster . Thi s historic building is where the first General Assembly met in 1946, and where Clement Attlee’s presence and leadership helped set the tone for the organisation’s earliest days. As Prime Minister of the host nation, Attlee did

2 days ago

Exploring the Attlee family archive

Some Trustees from the Attlee family spent time over the festive period re-discovering historic family photographs featuring Clement Attlee, and other members of the family. These images remain the personal property of the Attlee family and are protected by UK copyright law. They may not be reproduced, distributed, or used for commercial purposes without prior permission.

Jan 2

Following in Attlee’s footsteps at Haileybury

On 7 November 2025, two of our Trustees, Jo Roundell Greene and Laetitia Lucy, visited Haileybury, Clement Attlee’s former school. The visit was organised by the Haileybury Society and Sam Koon, Director of Teaching and Learning. Jo and Laetitia were given an Attlee-themed tour taking in the Library, Chapel, Pavilion and Dining Hall, followed by a pupil-led visit to Lawrence House, and time in the archives exploring Attlee material, including photographs and letters. They als

Dec 22, 2025

TRUSTEES AND PATRONS

The Foundation is guided by a dedicated board of trustees who uphold Clement Attlee’s vision and values.

Their collective experience ensures the Foundation remains focused on promoting education, equality and public service - the principles at the heart of Attlee’s legacy.