Unveiling the Jack Petchey Foundation Archive
The Jack Petchey Foundation Unveils an Archive Collection Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Sir Jack Petchey CBE
Ahead of what would have been Sir Jack’s 100th birthday (19th July 2025), the Jack Petchey Foundation proudly announces the opening of the Jack Petchey Foundation Archive, a collection dedicated to preserving and celebrating the life and legacy of its esteemed founder, Sir Jack Petchey CBE. This extensive collection, displayed in part in Dockmaster’s House in Canary Wharf and stored at the UK Philanthropy Archive at the University of Kent in Canterbury, offers a unique and in-depth look at the visionary who laid the groundwork for the charity’s mission.
The Archive is a meticulously curated repository featuring photographs, diaries, letters, publications, certificates, and many more objects relating to Sir Jack’s businesses, the charity, and Sir Jack’s personal life. This Archive not only celebrates Sir Jack’s pioneering work but also serves as an inspirational resource for those committed to the Jack Petchey Foundation’s mission of supporting young people across London and Essex.
Gemma Juma, CEO of the Jack Petchey Foundation, said of the archive: “We’re thrilled to share the remarkable story of Sir Jack with the world. This archive is a tribute to Sir Jack’s unwavering dedication to supporting young people. We believe that future generations will draw inspiration from his story, understanding the profound difference one person can make in their community.”
University Archivist at the University of Kent Special Collections and Archives said: “We are delighted to add the Jack Petchey Foundation Archives to the UK Philanthropy Archive here at the University of Kent. The archive telling Sir Jack’s story and the story of the work of the Jack Petchey Foundation will be a fantastic contribution to this valuable research resource for the study of the history and current practice of philanthropy, and we are pleased to be able to make the collection available to researchers and the public.”
The Jack Petchey Foundation Archive was officially opened by Sir Jack’s widow, Lady Frances Petchey and his three daughters, together with other members of Sir Jack’s family, in a special ceremony at Dockmaster’s House, the Foundation’s Headquarters.
Amanda, Sir Jack’s youngest daughter, said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony: “I would like to thank everyone for the hard work they have done on the memorial of my father, Sir Jack. It is truly amazing and I am beyond speechless.”
On the day, a number of young people spoke about their experiences with the Foundation, reflecting the incredible impact Sir Jack made on their lives and on over a million other young people.
Attendees had the opportunity to engage with the collection, gaining a deeper understanding of the historical and social impact of Sir Jack’s work. The Jack Petchey Foundation mini-museum is located at Dockmaster’s House, 1 Hertsmere Rd, London, E14 8JJ and the Archive will be held at the UK Philanthropy Archive.
For more information about the archive, or to schedule a visit to the mini-museum, please contact the Foundation via their website.
To view the archive collection at the University of Kent please contact Special Collections and Archives department. You can view the catalogue of the archive collection on the University’s website.
