Thank you for your interest in becoming a trustee of the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust (JRCT). This is an exciting opportunity to directly shape the future of a long-established social justice funder, and to make a lasting impact.
For 120 years, JRCT’s work has been inspired by our founder Joseph Rowntree’s conviction that true progress requires solving root causes, not merely treating symptoms.
We build upon Rowntree’s legacy by supporting people and organisations who seek systemic change by tackling the root causes of conflict and injustice. Our mission seems ever more relevant in an increasingly complex and unequal world.
In 2024 we spent £13.8 million in grant funding. We currently fund 340 people and organisations doing vital, charitable work, from well-known organisations to smaller grassroots groups. We have a passionate and committed staff team of 30, in addition to a team of expert advisors who help guide our grant-making.
Inspired by Quaker values, we fund in the fields of peace and security, rights and justice, power and accountability, sustainable future, and peace and human rights in Northern Ireland. We cherish the Quaker identity of JRCT, but we we actively welcome the contribution of people of all backgrounds and beliefs.
JRCT is at a critical juncture, and a role on our board offers the chance to steer our organisation through significant change. We are committed to strengthening our governance and culture, and our staff team, and in developing a robust strategy for the future, ensuring our funding has lasting impact. We need to continue to reimagine and improve our own practices alongside our core mission of funding organisations to make lasting change. This work requires both careful attention and strategic insight.
If our mission resonates with you, and you’re passionate about strengthening JRCT to ensure we best support organisations working on the toughest challenges facing our society, we would warmly invite you to apply.
Jonathan Heawood
Chair, JRCT