Behind every great newspaper stands an even greater guardian - and for The Guardian, that protector comes in the form of The Scott Trust. Established in 1936, this unique ownership model has become the bedrock of one of Britain's most respected news organisations.
The Vision That Started It All
The Trust was born from John Edward Taylor's visionary commitment to journalism that remains "free from commercial or political interference." What began as a safeguard for The Manchester Guardian has evolved into a global mission protecting The Guardian's distinctive voice across print and digital platforms.
More Than Just Ownership
Unlike traditional media corporations, The Scott Trust operates with a singular, powerful purpose: to secure The Guardian's financial and editorial independence in perpetuity. This isn't about profit maximisation - it's about principle preservation.
The Core Mission
- Maintain The Guardian's editorial independence beyond any individual owner's lifespan
- Secure the financial stability necessary for fearless journalism
- Uphold the newspaper's liberal tradition while adapting to changing times
- Ensure the publication remains free from partisan or commercial pressures
Modern Structure, Timeless Values
The current Scott Trust Limited, formed in 2008, represents the evolution of this commitment. While the legal structure has modernised, the fundamental principles remain unchanged. The Trust oversees Guardian Media Group, ensuring all business decisions serve the ultimate goal of preserving The Guardian's journalistic mission.
A Legacy of Protection
For nearly nine decades, The Scott Trust has provided the stability that allows Guardian journalists to pursue stories without fear or favour. In an era of media consolidation and corporate influence, this unique model stands as a testament to what journalism can achieve when it's protected from external pressures.
The Trust's enduring success demonstrates that with the right safeguards in place, independent journalism can not only survive but thrive, continuing to hold power to account for generations to come.
