Our Story – The Saltways

Who are The Saltways?

We’re specialists in charity films that matter—because we know charities.

We’ve all worked with or for charities throughout our careers, so we understand the unique challenges and rewards of charity filmmaking. We recognise your audiences and which messages need to shine through. We understand fundraising, brand and the people you support.

Most of the time, our films meet the brief but also provide versatile content for re-use in different contexts. So you get authentic, engaging films that always deliver the best possible value for your charity.

EMMA BRACEGIRDLE, FOUNDER

Emma is a charity professional with experience of working in charities of all sizes, focusing on fundraising and communications. She is passionate about ethical storytelling and supporting co-created charity video and animation.

I decided to start  The Saltways as I wanted to help charities to change the world through authentic storytelling. Charities of all sizes should have access to this."

All charities should be able to create films that have an impact, without heavy production or effects. If you give people the space to tell their story, you will get the results you need."

PETER BUTLER, CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Peter is a film and documentary maker with years of experience that has seen him work all over the world. Through his work, he has built a thriving network of expert freelancers who now collaborate with The Saltways.

Why "The Saltways"?

People often ask why we’re called “The Saltways”

The short answer? It’s actually the street where my brother Peter and I grew up, which was an old Roman Salt Way.

Four years ago, I was working in a charity fundraising while Peter was out there making high end documentaries. After working together on a project, we had this lightbulb moment: why not combine our skills to help incredible causes and the people they help tell their stories?

From day one, our big mission has been simple: give people the space and control to tell their own stories, their way. I’d spent years watching amazing charities struggle to get their message out there, while Peter had this incredible passion for storytelling through film. We knew that the most powerful stories aren’t just told – they’re owned by the people living them.

When you think about it, these old salt routes were all about connection – linking communities, sharing resources, bringing people together. That’s exactly what we’re passionate about today – creating spaces where people and organisations can connect, share, and grow stronger together.

Fast forward to now, and we’re doing exactly what we dreamed of – helping charities and social enterprises find their authentic voice and share their impact.

Our Values

Passionate

We're obsessed with what we do and why we do it. Every project gets our full energy because we're on a mission to change the world through storytelling that's both ethical and powerful.

Care

We genuinely care. We throw ourselves into every project because we're committed to our clients' missions, and we get emotionally invested in the stories we tell and the people behind them.

Respect

Everyone's story matters, and we mean everyone. We stick to our ethical guns in everything we do, creating spaces where our team, clients, and communities all feel heard and valued.

Collaboration

The magic happens when we work together. We're all about real co-creation – not just asking for opinions but actually sharing the creative process with our clients and communities.

Integrity

We do what we say we'll do. We're upfront and honest, even when it's tough, and we never compromise on our ethics – that's just who we are.

Our Wonderful Team

At the heart of The Saltways is an extraordinary team of creatives and charity professionals. Each one has been carefully hand-picked for their talent and commitment to the third sector.