What we do and how
Poverty
Our aim: to examine the root causes of poverty and disadvantage and identify solutions.
Our objectives:
- improve understanding of the causes and consequences of poverty;
- develop solutions to the problems caused by poverty;
- understand trends and attitudes to poverty;
- address poverty and disadvantage in general, and amongst our residents.
Empowerment
Our aim: to find ways in which people and communities can have control of their own lives.
Our objectives:
- to support communities so that the knowledge and expertise of residents can benefit the whole community;
- to enable people to live as independently as possible;
- to remove barriers that prevent people from realising their potential;
- to identify ways of adapting and changing funding structures and systems for long-term care to provide real security and support for people needing care.
Place
Our aim: to contribute to the building and development of strong, cohesive and sustainable communities.
Our objectives:
- to help improve the quality of life in disadvantaged neighbourhoods;
- to understand the changes taking place in communities and neighbourhoods;
- to develop the economic, social and environmental sustainability of homes;
- to improve access to affordable homes for people on low incomes.
How we do it
We search out the causes by:
- commissioning research;
- convening around issues;
- inquiry;
- identifying practical and costed solutions;
- evaluating practice and learning from it.
We demonstrate solutions by:
- supporting and working with practitioners and other organisations;
- developing and sharing the practice of the Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust as provider of homes and care, and developer of new homes;
- action research and development projects;
- developing Derwenthorpe, a 21st-century sustainable community in York.
We influence by:
- publishing evidence in accessible ways, and using the web to promote communication and also to foster dialogue;
- engaging with governments, local authorities, third sector organisations and the private sector to influence both practice and policy;
- other methods, including:
- running a Summer School every other year for potential leaders in the Third Sector;
- offering Fellowships to journalists every other year to explore issues within the Foundation’s concerns;
- holding seminars and roundtable discussions;
- showcasing JRHT operations, and introducing policy-makers and practitioners to different ways of operating;
- enabling the voices of those experiencing poverty and disadvantage to be heard by those in power.
Where do we work?
York, Yorkshire and the North East
The JRF has UK-wide influence but its base – the majority of its housing and development and its historic legacy – lies in York. We are a significant service provider, major employer, and key player in the development of the city of York – particularly in developing a 21st-century community at Derwenthorpe. We are also opening two new extra care retirement villages in Hartlepool and Scarborough in 2008.
Our York Grants Committee makes grants to organisations to help improve the general quality of life in York, with particular regard for those who are in any way disadvantaged. Grants typically range from £100 to £5,000.
JRF is also committed to a ten-year programme of engagement in Bradford. In partnership with statutory organisations and third sector organisations, JRF wants to make a positive difference to the people of Bradford by funding research into the challenges facing the city; investing in the development of services in Bradford; and working with others to ensure that Bradford’s assets are maximised.
UK
In its searching and influencing work, the JRF needs to understand the changing landscape developing across the devolved administrations of the UK. Where appropriate, the Foundation prioritises activity that explores and shares the learning from each country to benefit the rest of the UK.
