At Designworks, we believe that great design has the power to do good as well as look good. We are a team committed to social and environmental responsibility, using our creativity to support organisations that make a positive impact on people and the planet.
Our team actively considers the impact of every project, from ethical supply chains to resource-efficient digital architecture. We believe in doing more with less, ensuring high-quality results without compromising our shared values.
Our environmental & social policy
We hold formal accreditation (the ISO 14001 alternative for Small Business) and an environmental policy that reflects our commitment to responsible practice. We focus on reducing waste, lowering emissions and integrating sustainability into our day-to-day operations, while supporting our clients to do the same.
Our certification is:
- Designed to help us continually improve how we operate and strengthen our business practices.
- Proportionate to the size and environmental impact of our organisation.
- Focused on delivering practical, measurable progress rather than simply meeting compliance standards.
- Valuable in supporting marketing activity, meeting tender requirements and clearly demonstrating our environmental credentials.
Social and ethical commitment
Our responsibility extends beyond the environment to the way we treat our people, our partners, and our community.
- Team welfare: We foster a supportive, flexible, and inclusive work environment that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of our team.
- Responsible sourcing: We actively choose suppliers and partners who share our ethical standards, supporting local businesses and sustainable supply chains.
- Community impact: We prioritise work with charities, local authorities, and ethical SMEs, using our expertise to solve real-world challenges.
How we support purpose-led organisations
We partner with clients across the public and third sectors to amplify their mission through thoughtful design and strategy.
- Active Travel & Conservation: Creating identities for organisations focused on green infrastructure and biodiversity.
- Renewable Energy: Building digital platforms for companies leading the transition to a low-carbon future.
- Sustainable Print: Providing digital-first solutions and using sustainably sourced paper.
- Social Enterprise: Supporting businesses that reinvest in their communities and staff.
Our community impact
Rory attending the launch of Waste into Wellbeing, a volunteer-led charity that reduces food waste and tackles climate change by collecting surplus food from supermarkets. Designworks is a proud supporter of this fantastic local initiative.
Rory keeping pace with Tour de France legend, Jens Voigt, on his charity cycle ride from Land’s End to John o’ Groats. Rory is a founding member of Kendal Cycle Club and is a campaigner for safer streets and better cycling infrastructure.
Rory at the start line of the Fred Whitton Challenge, one of the UK’s toughest cycling events. To date, it has raised over £2 million for charities including Macmillan Cancer Support and Air Ambulance. As ‘Friends of the Fred’, Designworks is honoured to support this incredible Lakeland institution.
Rory with the Kirkby Lonsdale RUFC Under 16s. Designworks is proud to sponsor the team, supporting the vital work of grassroots clubs and ensuring local sport continues to thrive at the heart of our community.
A partner with purpose
Whether you are an established ethical organisation or just beginning your sustainability journey, we provide the technical expertise to help you tell your story. We work across active travel, renewable energy, conservation, and social enterprise to help purpose-led brands grow their reach. Contact us today at 01539 769815 or email info@thedesignworks.co.uk to start the conversation.
