Details
About Us
Joseph Rowntree (JRF & JRHT)
The Joseph Rowntree name represents two major interconnected organisations: the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF), a leading social research and policy charity, and the Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust (JRHT), a registered housing association and care provider. Together, they work to solve poverty and provide high-quality housing and care across York and the North East of England.
Who They Are
The Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) is an independent social change organisation. It functions as a "think-and-do tank," conducting extensive research into the root causes of poverty, housing inequality, and the "care crisis" in the UK to influence government policy.
The Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust (JRHT) is the practical arm of the organisation. It manages around 2,500 homes and provides a variety of care services. JRHT functions as a landlord and specialist care provider, operating unique communities like New Earswick (a garden village) and Hartrigg Oaks (the UK’s first continuing care retirement community).
Both organisations are rooted in the Quaker values of their founder, focusing on social justice, dignity, and community empowerment. They are regulated by the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) and the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
What They Do
Social Policy Research (JRF)
Producing landmark annual reports like "UK Poverty" to highlight economic trends and advocating for reforms in the social security, labour market, and housing systems.
Social Housing & Shared Ownership (JRHT)
Providing affordable rental properties, bungalows, and houses for families and individuals, alongside shared ownership schemes for those unable to buy outright.
Supported & Independent Living
Operating "Independent Living Services" that allow individuals with disabilities or mental health needs to live in their own homes with tailored support packages.
Retirement & Extra Care Housing
Managing sheltered housing and "Extra Care" schemes where older adults live independently but have access to 24/7 on-site support and domestic assistance if needed.
Residential & Nursing Care
Running specialized care homes, such as Lamel Beeches, which provide high-quality residential support for the elderly in a community-focused environment.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC)
Operating Hartrigg Oaks, a pioneering model that combines independent bungalow living with the guarantee of on-site nursing care whenever it may be required.
Approach & Values
Joseph Rowntree focuses on outcome-based living and social equity.
They prioritise community-led development, ensuring that their housing projects include green spaces, social hubs, and accessible facilities that encourage neighbours to connect. Their approach is designed to be long-term, focusing on "stewardship" rather than just "management"—maintaining homes and services to a high standard for future generations.
A strong emphasis is placed on "The Living Wage," where JRF was an early pioneer in calculating and advocating for a minimum income standard that allows for a dignified life, not just survival.
Industry Role
The Joseph Rowntree Foundation plays a dominant role in the UK political and charitable landscape, acting as a primary source of data for journalists, academics, and policymakers.
As a pioneer in social care models, the Housing Trust contributes to national discussions on how to manage an ageing population, demonstrating that integrated housing and care can reduce the burden on the NHS.
They offer extensive employment and volunteer opportunities, particularly for those interested in social research, housing management, and specialist care, acting as a major ethical employer in the Yorkshire region.