Unifying mission and digital presence: Inspire North’s transformation
The challenge: When many become one
Imagine several distinct charities, each with their own websites, branding, and approaches, joining together to create a single, cohesive organisation. This was precisely the situation Inspire North faced when they consolidated multiple charities into one Community Benefit Society.
Their digital presence consisted of separate WordPress and Squarespace sites that had developed independently over time but needed to evolve into a unified platform reflecting their new organisational structure. This presented challenges for users trying to navigate services across what was now a single organisation.
The challenge extended beyond digital consolidation. Inspire North was actively streamlining their service provision, bringing together programmes and support services from across these previously separate entities. They needed a clear, intuitive way to present these services to people who needed them—often individuals in vulnerable situations who required straightforward access to support.
With a firm deadline connected to their amalgamation, we needed to work efficiently while maintaining quality. The importance of getting this right was clear: this wasn’t just about creating a cohesive website; it was about ensuring people could find vital support services when they needed them most.
From the moment we met with Stephen and Alex, we knew immediately following their presentation that they were the team for us. We loved their can-do approach and the simple way they presented the possibilities to us to such an extent we were immediately excited at what was about to take place. They were able to assure us that they could achieve our aspiration for a client/tenant focused website and we were hooked!
Sinéad Cregan, Director of Development and Innovation Inspire North
From multiple sites to unified experience
The contrast between Inspire North’s previous digital presence and the new unified platform is remarkable. Rather than simply combining existing websites, we took the opportunity to completely reimagine how their digital presence could function as an integrated experience.
The new site serves as a cohesive digital hub where users can easily find the help they need. Instead of navigating between different websites with varying information and designs, visitors now experience a consistent journey regardless of which service they’re seeking.
We created a visual identity that feels reassuring and supportive—an important consideration when designing for people who may be seeking mental health support or housing assistance during difficult circumstances. Every aspect of the user experience was designed with vulnerable users in mind, creating a significant improvement in how people connect with Inspire North’s services.
Working with the team really has been a pleasure and their skills and expertise at creating a new website that has had an immediate positive impact. The feedback to date has been so positive from employees, Trustees, external stakeholders, clients and tenants.
Making technology work for people and purpose
When building for an organisation supporting vulnerable individuals, every design decision carries weight. We focused on ensuring the site effectively helps people find support when they need it most:
🔍 Three clicks to find help
We optimised the user journey to a streamlined three-click path to appropriate support—a critical simplification for people in difficult situations.
🗺️ Location-based support finder
Our interactive map displays available services by location, connecting people with nearby support options quickly and effectively.
⚡ Streamlined processes
Simplified administrative systems—from contact forms to feedback mechanisms—save time for both users and staff, allowing more focus on providing support rather than managing paperwork.
🏗️ User-friendly content management
The Wagtail CMS provides flexible building blocks enabling the Inspire North team to update content independently, empowering those who know their services best.
♿ Comprehensive accessibility
Achieving 99% compliance with AAA accessibility standards recognises that many users rely on assistive technologies. Thoughtful design choices create a clear interface providing comfort and clarity for users in challenging situations.
🌐 Adaptable framework
Multi-site capabilities provide flexibility as the organisation evolves, ensuring their digital presence can grow alongside their services.
Check out the home page before and after:
When we interviewed The Developer Society, I knew immediately we could work with them to design and develop our new website. They had prepared so well for the interview which made the selection process so easy. They took the time to understand us and our vision and they have really delivered a website that we are proud of and that is future proof.
Ruth Kettle, CEO Inspire North
Looking forward
This project provides more than immediate solutions—we’ve built a foundation that evolves with Inspire North, preventing the need for another major overhaul as their organisation grows.
Wagtail’s component-based architecture allows seamless extension and modification. New features can be added without compromising existing systems, with each element designed to work harmoniously within a sustainable digital ecosystem.
The real-world impact makes this project particularly meaningful. This isn’t merely a website redesign—it’s an essential connection point for people seeking mental health support, housing assistance, and other vital services. The transformation from multiple disconnected websites to one cohesive platform, from complex journeys to three-click support finding, has fundamentally improved how Inspire North connects with those who need their services.
Through thoughtful design and technical implementation, we’ve created a digital presence that actively helps fulfil Inspire North’s purpose of Creating a World Where Everyone Matters.
