Historic Buildings

Strawberry Hill House Towards A New Future

Strawberry Hill Trust (SHT) urgently needs external financial support to address its current financial position, putting the SHT operation at risk of closure. Post-pandemic, in 2022 and 2023, SHT ran at a combined loss of over £350,000 while the endowment reserve, standing at £166,000, is lower than considered prudent. The new Executive Director, Zoë Colbeck, brings strong management and fundraising credentials in the sector, signalling a new era for SHT. Key components of this application provide a range of important bolsters comprising: a House and Garden Manager (backfill), a Volunteer Development Officer, a Donor Relationships Officer; a Trusts and Foundations post; audience development work; collection management system fees; tailored training; pilot activity projects and exhibitions; associated marketing; and the emergency replacement of two defunct boilers. This carefully considered project gives SHT a realistic opportunity to get onto a stronger overall footing, with robust business planning and creative engagement with visitors.