Guardian Media Group
The Scott Trust
The Scott Trust is a unique form of media ownership in the UK
The sole shareholder in Guardian Media Group, the Trust was created in 1936 to safeguard the journalistic freedom and liberal values of the Guardian. In 2008 it became a limited company, with the same protections for the Guardian enshrined in its constitution. Its core purpose is to secure the financial and editorial independence of the Guardian in perpetuity.
Rather than benefiting shareholders or a proprietor, GMG’s profits are reinvested to sustain journalism that is free from commercial or political interference, and to uphold a set of values laid down by CP Scott, the great Manchester Guardian editor.
The remit of the Trust’s charitable arm, the Guardian Foundation, reflects the Trust’s aims of promoting press freedom and meeting its responsibilities to the community.
Scott Trust video
A ten-minute film about the origins, nature and role of the Scott Trust »
Interactive timeline
Explore the history of the Scott Trust using our interactive timeline »
Purpose
The financial and editorial independence of the Guardian in perpetuity »
Values
The principles that underpin the Scott Trust »