What is the FTCT? Established in 1853, the Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust was founded to ‘clothe, maintain and educate’ children of those working in the UK textile trade. Today FTCT gives grants to children aged 0-18 years, whose well-being is at risk, where their parent or carer has a trade connection to any aspect of the UK fashion and textile industry. Then… … and now Charles Dickens was FTCT’s Chairman of Appeal in 1856! “Thank you so much for your help. I feel so relieved now that some of my financial burden has lifted.” Jane, mum of Sarah. The quote used is real but names and supporting images have been changed to protect identity.

How can FTCT help my child? Grants to ensure a child’s well being, such as therapies, adaptations to the home, extra-curricular activities or respite breaks. Grants for the little things which most of us take for granted, like clothing, bedding, white goods or school uniform. Grants to help children access education, such as specialist equipment, extra tuition, learning support or school necessities.

How do I know if I can apply? Your child must be 18 yrs or under As the parent or carer you must have worked in fashion/textile retail or manufacturing either in the past, or currently. There must be a case of need; it must be an ‘essential to have’ not a ‘nice to have’

….Thomas,10yrs and mum Sam, a sales assistant from Debenhams. FTCT part funded a specialist trike for Thomas. How has FTCT helped families in my industry?

…Cassie, 17yrs and her grandma Tricia, over the years FTCT gave two grants; one for clothing and bedding and most recently, for a bus pass for college. How has FTCT helped families in my industry?

….Louie, 1yr and mum Rebecca, an employee at Next. FTCT gave a grant enabling Louie to attend Auditory Therapy Sessions, after he was born severely deaf. How has FTCT helped families in my industry?

How do I apply? Call Francesca, our Grants Co-ordinator in confidence on: t: e: Visit: Our team is here to help! Anna-Director, FTCTFrancesca- Grants Co-ordinator, FTCT Jill-Marketing Manager, FTCT. Sylvia-Finance Administrator, FTCT.

How can I spread the word about FTCT? Wear an FTCT button badge… Put up an FTCT poster… Talk to people about the help FTCT can give

Start following us on Twitter,‘like’ us on Facebook or sign up to our

… you could even dress like Santa and raise money for FTCT, too! On Sunday 9 December, lots of fashion retail companies, mums and dads and children (over 8yrs), will be joining us in Greenwich Park, for the 5K Santa Run. Free Santa suit included! A team of 10 who raise £100 each, could raise £1,000 for FTCT! For more information, either sign up today or go to

Thank you and look forward to staying in touch!