Brief History

Just Ideas was founded in 2006 by Helen Garforth, building on Helen’s expertise in facilitation, global learning and grassroots community development. In 2007 Just Ideas Sustainable Solutions Ltd was established as a limited company with Richard Usher joining the organisation bringing an additional set of skills with his work in the UK voluntary sector and international development organisations. Since then Just Ideas  has worked with a broad range of clients and associates, delivering successful projects but all the time keeping attention to the detailed and personal attention that is afforded by being small. Our work is underpinned by a commitment to:

• Participation – people are at the core of what we do and how we work. Participation means valuing people’s experience and insight, using often diverse viewpoints to benefit our work.
• Social justice – we believe it is our responsibility to take action now for a sustainable future for everyone benefitting health, happiness and saving money.
• Creativity – our work embraces new approaches and technology without forgetting the things that have always worked well.

Just Ideas is now a provider for Big Local, Big Assist, Community Matters, the Community Development Foundation and Can Do Communities. Helen and Richard are both Research Associates of the Institute for Voluntary Action Research. We look forward to working with you – do get in touch if you need further information about how we can support your organisation, people or work.