Let’s talk websites. Specifically, charity websites.

We all know having a website is essential, but I’m still surprised by how many small organisations (with brilliant causes!) are let down by poor layouts, missing info or confusing menus. A good website doesn’t need to be flashy or expensive, it just needs to work well for the people you’re trying to reach.

So… what makes a charity website ‘good’?

Here’s a practical checklist with real, fixable advice.

1. A Clear, Welcoming Home Page

When someone lands on your site, they should instantly understand who you are, what you do and why it matters. No scrolling required.

What this looks like:

• One strong headline or mission statement.
• A short intro that actually says what you do (not just values/vision).
• Clear links to core services, volunteering and donation pages.

🎯 Fix it: Avoid generic text and acronyms. Imagine you’re talking to someone who’s never heard of your charity before.

2. Easy, Simple Navigation

You’d be shocked how many charities have 20+ pages hidden under random dropdowns. Keep your menu clean and logical. Start with just 5–7 main pages, and only add subpages when absolutely necessary.

What to include:

• About / Our Story
• Services / Support / What We Do
• Get Involved (volunteering, fundraising)
• News / Blog
• Donate / Support Us
• Contact

🎯 Fix it: Combine pages when possible. Not everything needs its own tab. Avoid dropdowns that go three levels deep, it’s confusing.

3. Real Photos Over Stock

Stock images scream “generic.” Visitors want to see who you support, where you work and what your community looks like.

You don’t need a professional shoot, smartphone photos from your last event are already better than polished stock that says nothing about you.

🎯 Fix it: Create a shared folder for staff to upload photos after events. Always get permission, and aim for natural, candid shots. WhatsApp is a great tool to share between team members but always remember to store them in a dedicated folder.

4. Clear Calls to Action (CTAs)

Once someone lands on your site, what should they do? Make it easy. Whether it’s “Donate” “Join our mailing list” or “Book your place,” it should be obvious.

Use buttons. Make them visible. And don’t make people scroll for them.

🎯 Fix it: Add a big CTA button to your header and footer. Keep the wording clear and action-focused.

5. Impact, Proof and Testimonials

If your charity is making an impact (which it is!), show it. Include quick stats, case studies and short quotes from people who’ve been impacted.

No need for long PDFs or fancy reports, just 1–2 lines under a section like “Our Impact” or “Hear From Our Community” will do the trick.

🎯 Fix it: Add a simple “Did you know?” section on your homepage with bullet-point stats or a rotating testimonial carousel.

6. Works on Mobile

More than half your visitors are probably using a phone. If your site loads slowly or doesn’t adapt to small screens, they’ll leave.

🎯 Fix it: Test your site on your phone, see what breaks. If your text is hard to read or buttons are tiny, it’s time to tweak.

7. Quick and Simple Donation Page

People want to support you but not if your donation form takes longer than 2 minutes and crashes halfway through.

🎯 Fix it: Use website integrations or plug-ins for easy, low-cost donation options that are mobile-friendly and allow for Gift Aid.

A “good” charity website isn’t about bells and whistles, it’s about clarity, trust and making it easier for people to connect with your work.

If you’re not sure where to start or if you know your site needs a bit of TLC but you’re short on time, drop me a message. I’ve worked with lots of small teams to tidy up their sites without blowing the budget.