Overview
The Equality Trust is a UK-based charity established in 2009, with charitable status granted in 2015. It was founded to address the social and economic impacts of inequality in the United Kingdom. The organisation’s work is grounded in evidence showing links between inequality, social outcomes and long-term economic performance. The Trust operates as an independent, non-profit organisation, focusing on research, policy engagement and public education. Its approach is informed by academic research and aims to support informed decision-making across public policy, civil society and economic systems.
Mission and focus areas
The Equality Trust’s core mission is to reduce income, wealth and power inequalities in the UK. It focuses on analysing how unequal societies experience poorer outcomes across health, education, social cohesion and economic resilience. Key areas of focus include income and wealth distribution, taxation, public services, corporate power and democratic accountability. While not a finance-specific organisation, its work is relevant to sustainable finance and ESG through its emphasis on social equity, economic inclusion and long-term societal wellbeing. The Trust contributes evidence and analysis that can inform responsible investment, policy development and assessments of social risk.
Structure and governance
The organisation is governed by a board of trustees responsible for oversight and strategic direction. Day-to-day operations are led by Co-Executive Directors, supported by a small staff team and associates.
The Equality Trust works collaboratively with researchers, civil society organisations, campaign groups and policymakers. Its structure allows it to combine independent research with advocacy and public engagement while remaining separate from government or corporate control.
Programs and offerings
The Equality Trust produces research reports, policy briefings and evidence submissions on inequality-related issues. These outputs draw on national and international data and are used to inform debates on taxation, public spending and economic reform. It also undertakes advocacy campaigns, public education initiatives and media engagement to increase understanding of inequality. Resources published by the Trust are openly accessible and used by policymakers, researchers and practitioners seeking evidence on social inequality and its economic implications.
Our mission is to challenge concentrations of income, wealth and power to create conditions where people and communities thrive. To make this happen we gather evidence, build coalitions for change, campaign, and support others to do so.
