UK
Textile care workers are finding winter increasingly difficult to manage, according to a leading industry children’s charity. Founded in 1853, the Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust (FTCT) is the only organisation dedicated to supporting the children of people who work in the British fashion and textile industry, which includes textile care. The Trust provides a lifeline in times of need through grants for essential items; a one-off cash payment that does not have to be paid back. Typically, grants start at £150 and help to buy children’s items like clothes, school uniforms, bedroom furniture or study equipment. The Trust also able to provide support for more specialist needs, like wheelchairs, therapies, or funding for children with additional learning, emotional or health needs.
The FTCT has revealed survey findings that indicate industry families are finding winter increasingly difficult to manage. As the trade charity for UK fashion and textile families, including those with parents working in textile care, FTCT provides financial support to parents working in the industry, during challenging or unexpected life events such as illness, bereavement or relationship breakdown.
FTCT’s 2025 winter survey- which spoke to parents and carers currently receiving or eligible for FTCT support-shows how these life challenges affect industry families. The survey revealed 74% of parents in these circumstances said their financial situation has worsened, with many struggling to balance essential household costs alongside the rising price of heating, food and children’s needs.
One parent, who is the sole earner after her partner fell ill, shared the difficult steps they are taking to manage rising costs:
“I turned off the heating completely in Spring, trying to save enough so we don’t fall back into arrears. My daughter has been asking when we can turn it back on because she’s feeling cold and wearing layers around the house. At night we use hot water bottles, and during the day I work in hoodies, hats and a blanket to keep warm.”
FTCT’s CEO, Anna Pangbourne commented, “Our 2025 Winter Survey reflects the difficult trade-offs faced by families in financial hardship face during the Winter months. Many parents who are dealing with life’s toughest challenges, like caring for a loved one or rebuilding their life after divorce, are not able to buy winter clothing or bedding for their children, saying they needed to prioritise rent or bills, which is just heartbreaking to hear.”
“But there is a solution. When we support families through challenging times, with grants for clothing, bedding, and other essential items, they can prioritise heating and food. One grant really can transform a family’s entire winter.”
The FTCT is currently running a Winter Appeal to fund essential everyday items to support children whose parents work in fashion and textiles and are going through tough times. As a small charity, the Trust sends funding directly to families and just £10 could provide a warm hat and glove set for children living without.
More information about the appeal and how to make a donation can be found at: ftct.org.uk /winter-appeal-2025
