What if working with a designer actually made your job easier?

That’s the experience the charities I work with describe again and again.

I’m Jo – a brand strategist and graphic designer who’s spent more than 25 years helping UK charities communicate clearly, confidently and with purpose. I’ve worked in the Third Sector since 2005, and I understand the realities you’re juggling: limited time, tight budgets, multiple stakeholders and messages for a wide range of audiences.

Why charities choose to work with me

I don’t just “do the design”. I help you think and I challenge you (in a nice way!).

Clients often tell me I bring clarity to projects that felt overwhelming – whether that’s creating a brand from scratch, refreshing an identity that’s drifted, or designing communications that bring a lot of information together in an easy to read layout. I listen, I guide, I simplify and I make the whole process feel manageable.

A partner, not just a supplier

I love to work collaboratively, being your sounding board when you need one and a steady pair of hands when we’re on a deadline. If a project needs extra expertise, I bring in trusted collaborators that I have worked with for years. My goal is always the same: to make your life easier and your communications stronger.

Design that helps you make a bigger impact

Everything I create – from impact reports, newsletters and fundraising campaigns to full rebrands – is rooted in your mission and shaped for your audiences. The result is strategic work that strengthens your identity, builds trust and helps you reach more of the people who need you.

Have a look at recent examples of my work in my portfolio and have a look at the nice things people have said about working with me.

Let’s talk

Whether you’re planning a rebrand, working on your latest impact report, or just need a fresh perspective on a challenge, I’d love to help. Get in touch to talk through what you need or ask for a quote and we’ll work out the best way forward for your charity.

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FAQs

When should we get in touch about a rebrand?

The earlier the better! If you need support explaining to your trustees the benefits of a rebrand, I’m your wingwoman. Let’s do a quick brand audit or short survey for your audiences to see what’s working and what’s not, so you’ve got some evidence and guidance to make clear decisions. Early conversations help me shape the brief, clarify what you really need, and make sure the final design supports your objectives.

How much will it cost?

It depends on what you already have, what you need and how quickly you need it. Every charity is different and every project is unique. I’ll always give you a clear quote up front based on my experience of similar projects, and my pricing is very competitive for the level of experience, sector knowledge and strategic support you get.

Why outsource to a trusted freelancer instead of hiring in‑house?

Outsourcing gives you flexibility, consistency and expertise without the overheads. Working with me long‑term means you get someone who knows your brand inside out, cares about your outcomes and brings a fresh external perspective. I’m not a staff member you need to manage, and I’m not an AI tool generating generic content – I’m a partner who listens, understands your audiences and keeps everything on‑brand.

What types of charities do you work with?

I work with charities, CICs and not-for-profits of all sizes – from small, local teams who need hands‑on support to national organisations managing complex communications. I work on a retainer basis or on one-off projects. I’m really handy as an extra member of your design team who can jump in when you need additional support or cover for sickness or annual leave.

Do you only work on full rebrands?

Not at all. I work with most of my clients on ongoing design support, updating materials, creating annual reports or help bringing consistency to what they already have. You don’t need a huge project to benefit from a long‑term creative partner.

Can you help us figure out what we actually need?

Yes absolutely. I’d much rather you tell me what you’re trying to achieve than give me specifics for a piece of collateral! Clients often say this is one of the most valuable parts of working with me. 

How do you make sure everything stays on‑brand?

Because I get to know your organisation properly; your guidelines, examples of work and your strategic objectives. Over time, I build a deep understanding of your tone, audiences and visual identity. That means every piece of work feels consistent, recognisable and aligned with your mission. I can also create template for you, review work produced by your team and do quarterly reviews of your communications to keep everything on track!

Do you do everything yourself?

Not always. When a project needs additional skills, I bring in trusted collaborators I’ve worked with for years. Copywriters, illustrators, photographers, web developers… I can assemble the right team so you don’t have to manage multiple suppliers.

What are your turnaround times?

It depends on the size and urgency of the project, but I always communicate clearly about timelines. If you have a tight deadline, tell me early and I’ll do everything I can to make it work.

Can you help us improve our existing brand rather than replace it?

Absolutely. Many charities don’t need a full rebrand, if you find that your brand has drifted over time or your charity has had to pivot in what it does because of need or funding then you might just need me to bring some clarity and consistency back to your existing brand. I can help you strengthen what you already have so it works harder for you and everyone knows how to apply it consistently.

 

Get in touch to talk through what you need – over coffee, of course!