George House Trust, a charity dedicated to supporting people living with HIV in the North West, has engaged Manchester-based digital agency Phoenix Digital to help deliver a more accessible and user-focused online presence. This digital transformation initiative includes a new website which has just been completed, to improve how people interact with the charity, with a focus on addressing specific needs identified through in-depth research conducted last year.
Phoenix Digital’s initial research project involved extensive one-on-one interviews, focus groups, and surveys, gathering insights from George House Trust’s diverse community. The findings, gathered from people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, employment statuses, and life experiences, revealed areas where digital improvements could significantly enhance access to support, information, and community engagement.
The digital transformation plan was carefully structured to support George House Trust’s mission of inspiring people living with HIV to live healthy, confident lives without stigma. The new website which just went live, integrates essential tools such as a donation platform, communication functionalities, and a CRM system to help streamline operations and provide a more responsive service to those in need.
George House Trust's vision, “a world where HIV holds no one back,” is at the heart of this transformation. With Phoenix Digital’s expertise, the charity is aiming to deliver an online platform that is welcoming, user-friendly, and sensitive to the needs of a diverse audience, including service users, volunteers, and staff members. By creating a cohesive digital strategy, the collaboration aims to improve accessibility, reduce social isolation, and increase involvement in support services.
Comments from the teams
Davinia Hamilton-Maddox, Co-director at Phoenix Digital, commented, “Our research underscored the importance of understanding the specific needs of George House Trust’s community. HIV is a sensitive topic, and many of the people we spoke to showed they require a careful, thoughtful approach. This project is about creating a digital experience that’s genuinely helpful, respectful, and inclusive.”
Darren Knight, CEO of George House Trust shares his comments on the project: “Working with Phoenix Digital has been an encouraging experience. They have taken the time to understand our unique organisational needs and our ambitions to improve how we support people. At George House Trust, we are committed to fostering confidence and wellbeing among people living with HIV, and Phoenix Digital is helping us take important steps toward that goal.”
