The Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust

Supporting families in fashion and textiles since 1853

The Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust is steeped in a rich and vibrant heritage. Established in 1853, when the UK silk and cotton weaving industry was thriving, a group of warehouse clerks formed a charity and school to look after orphan children from the families of their trade.

Support for the cause grew, and over the years the charity helped thousands of families within the industry. Their good work attracted the attention of prestigious supporters including the author and social commentator, Charles Dickens who was our Chairman of Appeal in 1856.

The FTCT and fellow foundling organisation, The Royal Russell School, have been honoured with royal patronage from the beginning. From Edward VII through to Her Majesty the Queen who became patron in 1950.

How the FTCT helps today

Now a stand-alone charity, the FTCT’s purpose remains to support families in the modern day fashion and textile industry – including clothes shops, supermarkets, factories and more.

Families who just need extra financial help, to support their child. Like a new school uniform or a specialist item like mobility equipment. It could even be for a household cost like a broken washing machine or fridge.

Our grants start at £250 and provide practical help to hundreds of UK families every year. We also provide large and ongoing grants.

Celebrating together at The Patron’s Lunch

To mark this momentous occasion, we couldn’t think of a better way of celebrating than with the people who make our organisation so special – our beneficiaries and fundraisers. Individuals were selected at random and we’re delighted to have three families and two fun runners joining members of the FTCT team on the day.

For more information, please visit our website www.ftct.org.uk and share our information via Facebook and Twitter.