About Fashion & textile children's trust
Fashion & Textile Children's Trust: Providing Financial Grants for the Children of UK Fashion and Textile Families
Fashion & Textile Children's Trust (FTCT) is a UK-based charity organization that provides financial grants to support the children of families working in the fashion and textile industry. The charity was established in 1853, making it one of the oldest charities in the UK. Since then, FTCT has been providing financial assistance to families who are facing financial difficulties due to various reasons such as illness, disability, redundancy or bereavement.
The fashion and textile industry is a vital part of the UK economy, employing over half a million people across different sectors such as manufacturing, retailing and design. However, many families working in this industry face challenges that can impact their ability to provide for their children's basic needs such as food, clothing and education. This is where FTCT comes in - by providing financial grants that can help alleviate some of these challenges.
FTCT works with partner organizations across the fashion and textile industry to identify families who are eligible for support. These partners include trade unions, employers' associations and other charities working with vulnerable groups. Once an application has been received from an eligible family member or partner organization on behalf of a family member, FTCT assesses it based on its criteria for eligibility.
To be eligible for support from FTCT:
- The applicant must be a parent or legal guardian of a child under 18 years old.
- The applicant must have worked within the UK fashion or textile industry for at least one year within the last nine years.
- The applicant must be experiencing financial hardship due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness or redundancy.
If an application meets these criteria and is approved by FTCT's board of trustees, then a grant will be awarded based on individual circumstances up to £750 per child per year until they reach 18 years old.
The types of expenses covered by FTCT grants include:
- Clothing and footwear
- School uniform and equipment
- Educational trips and activities
- Essential household items such as furniture or appliances
FTCT's grants are designed to provide short-term relief for families facing financial difficulties. However, the charity also offers additional support through its partner organizations such as debt advice, mental health support or access to training opportunities.
FTCT is funded by donations from individuals, companies and other charitable trusts. The charity has a strong track record of financial management, with over 90% of its income going directly towards supporting families in need.
In conclusion, Fashion & Textile Children's Trust is a vital resource for families working in the UK fashion and textile industry who are facing financial hardship due to unforeseen circumstances. The charity provides much-needed financial assistance that can help alleviate some of the challenges faced by these families. With over 160 years of experience in supporting vulnerable groups, FTCT is a trusted partner for both families and organizations across the fashion and textile industry.