What issues does the Foundation focus on?

To work towards our mission, we support a range of different causes through four core programmes:

• Igniting Creativity
• Uplifting Through Progression
• Building Safety
• Supporting Systemic Change.

These causes include issues like anti-racism, homelessness, modern slavery, access to creative spaces, mental wellbeing, and more. Our programmes are deliberately flexible so we can respond as challenges evolve and direct support where it's needed.

How does the Foundation choose which organisations to support?

We partner with organisations that are deeply rooted in their communities and already creating meaningful change.

We look for shared values, lived experience, and a clear vision for impact. When new partnership opportunities are available, organisations are invited to submit proposals, which are carefully reviewed by the Foundation team and our independent Board of Trustees to ensure decisions are thoughtful, transparent and mission-led.

Does the Foundation only provide funding?

Funding is a core driver of the change we help make - and for many partners, flexible funding is what allows their work to exist and grow.

Alongside grants, we build long-term partnerships that may include volunteering, skills-sharing and amplifying our partners’ voices and stories, helping them strengthen their impact beyond funding alone.

Where does the Foundation’s funding come from?

The Dr. Martens Foundation is an independent charity with its own budget. Our funding is built through generous donations, alongside an annual contribution from Dr. Martens.

Where does the Foundation operate?

We primarily support organisations working within the Dr. Martens global footprint — the communities and places where the brand operates.

In some cases, we may partner with organisations working beyond this footprint where there is strong alignment with our mission and a clear need for support.

How can I get involved?

The Foundation is shaped by the Doc’s community, and there are lots of ways to take part — from volunteering with partner charities, to fundraising, sharing stories, or joining Foundation-led moments throughout the year.

Visit our Get Involved page to explore current opportunities.

How do you know the Foundation is making a difference?

We work closely with partners to understand what change looks like for them. We track impact, learn as we go, and share stories that show how support translates into change on the ground.

Who runs the Foundation?

The Foundation is managed day to day by a small, dedicated team, with oversight from an independent Board of Trustees. Dr. Martens employees often offer their time and skills to support our activities too.

Our impact is driven by the collective.

Where does the Foundation operate?

We primarily support organisations working within the Dr. Martens global footprint — the communities and places where Dr. Martens operates.

We may partner with organisations operating outside this footprint, if there’s alignment with our mission and values and a strong need for support.

Does the Foundation provide support in emergencies and crises?

As a growing Foundation, we don’t have the resources to responsibly respond to every emergency or global crisis. However, where relevant, we provide partners with additional support to help them to respond when urgent needs arise in their communities.