As we have all witnessed recently, circumstances can suddenly arise and leave any of us financially vulnerable.

The Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust is a charity that supports parents and carers who work in fashion and textiles. By providing financial grants for children’s essential items such as clothing, bedroom furniture and essential appliances, the charity helps thousands of families every year.

With the rising cost of living and cuts to Universal Credit, coupled with the ongoing pandemic, FTCT grants provide respite and relief for families in financial difficulty. So if you or a family you know could benefit from help to pay for children’s essentials, please find out more about the FTCT.

Barbara, a parent recently supported by FTCT said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone at FTCT. You really helped us in the most difficult time. My husband and I never expected to be in the situation like this as we both always worked. Thank you so much for the helping hand FTCT!

What FTCT fund:

Grants can cover the cost of essential items for children (0-18 yrs) such as clothing, laptops or tablets for homework, bedroom furniture and other household essentials, including white goods.

If a child has additional health needs, their grants can also help to support with mobility equipment, sensory toys, therapies and more. Their grants are not a loan and do not need to be re-paid

How to apply:

To apply the parent or carer must have worked for a UK fashion or textile company for at least one year within the last nine years. For more information about their trade criteria, visit this page on their website.

For more information about the type of help available and how to apply, visit their website: www.ftct.org.uk