Joseph Rowntree Reform Trust
brief
The Joseph Rowntree Reform Trust (JRRT) works for democratic and political reform in the UK. It was set up in 1904 by Joseph Rowntree, a philanthropist who created three organisations to tackle the underlying causes of various social, economic and political ills. JRRT believes that power must be challenged and held accountable, and that the political system must be open, inclusive and collaborative. It provides grants for campaigns, and has supported a broad range of liberal causes including democratic reform, civil liberties and social justice.
The trust approached us in 2018 with a brief of improving the design, functionality and branding of their website and online application system. Their previous site was outdated and uninspiring, and they also wanted to screen grant applicants more effectively and ensure only people eligible for funding were able to access their application process.
action
Our WordPress developers designed a beautiful new website for JRRT, with visually-appealing branding placing the trust as a distinct but in-keeping part of the wider Joseph Rowntree family. It tells the organisation’s vision and story in an engaging way, with information well-organised and easy to find.
The trust’s grant application process has been made clearer in order to encourage the right people and organisations to apply. There is information about what is and isn’t funded, key dates, guidance on writing applications and lots of other relevant resources highlighted before an application can be commenced. This means that JRRT is now only receiving high-quality grant requests from projects that are eligible for funding, thus reducing administrative time spent reading, processing and responding to unsuitable applications.
A key part of the project was ensuring an open and inclusive decision-making process amongst JRRT’s staff and trustees, in line with the organisations strong democratic values. We conducted a variety of workshops and other stakeholder alignment activities to ensure all voices were heard and that decisions were made collectively, resulting in a website that everyone is proud of.
impact
JRRT is very happy with its new website and particularly its improved grant application process. We are continuing to work with the trust, providing ongoing WordPress maintenance and support to keep their website fresh, up-to-date and functioning optimally.
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